There has been a little known offshoot of the Appalachian trail called the Mountains-to-Sea trail. Since it’s conception in 1977 it’s never had a clear direction. But as of this year the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources is making a game plan to see it through.

The Mountains-to-Sea trails stretches from the Smokeys in North Carolina to the Outer Banks. 600 of the 1100 mile journey is comprised of trails linked together piecemeal by local governments, non-profits, and volunteers. The remaining 500 miles is to be traveled via country roads. Going forward, the government has decided to hire a consultant and create a ‘master plan’ in 2015. It is estimated to add about 15 more miles of trail per year.

As the trails are ever evolving, an official guide is in the works which will map out sanctioned routes and camp sites.

Friends of the Mountains to Sea Trail, a non-profit and online community, is helping to head up the effort. See their interactive map of the trail below: