Before his death, Allen de Hart hiked more than 53,000 miles in 46 states and 18 foreign countries. He is the author of nine books and trail guides for the Carolinas and other Southeastern states. He built his first trail with his two brothers to create a shortcut from their family's farm to the local school. After earning a master's degree from the University of Virginia and serving nine years in the United States Army, de Hart moved with his wife to Louisburg, NC, where he taught history and served as director of public affairs for Louisburg College.
