Introduction: Episode 4: Appalachia: A Different Way (02:59)

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The region's mountains and forests have shaped an outdoor way of life for generations. The culture centers on food, music, and a connection with the outdoors. A new generation is redefining the region. Baratunde Thurston visits West Virginia. (Credits)

Appalachian Trail (10:40)

The AT travels over 2,100 miles through 14 states. Thurston hikes a section of the trail with through-hiker Jennifer Pharr Davis. The trail is therapeutic and open to everyone. Phar discusses her first hike, gender bias, limiting herself, and setting the record.

Natural Resources (08:59)

Mark Lilly's family has lived in Appalachia since the 1700s. The boom and bust of coal mining transforms the region's economy and culture. Beekeeping is an important source of income. Thurston and Lilly join Lynn Reid at her 13 beehives. Lilly reflects on lessons and change.

New River Gorge (10:25)

The newest National Park helps the economy and raises people's spirits. Eric Thompson discusses overcoming accessibility issues and returning to river rafting. He and Thurston navigate the rapids on the oldest river in North America.

Wild Food (08:20)

Chef Ian Boden uses locally foraged ingredients; the region's soil produces plants with unique flavors. Tyler Trainer and Thurston forage the Trainer family's 17-acre forest; foraging is an Appalachian tradition.

Shenandoah National Park (11:48)

Jared Blake records the sounds of nature, revealing a dimension often overlooked; he has captured 1,000 natural sounds. Over exposure to human-made sounds produces a stress response. Thurston and Blake record in Big Meadows. Thurston reflects on being in tune with the environment and adaptability.

Credits: Episode 4: Appalachia: A Different Way (America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston) (00:33)

Credits: Episode 4: Appalachia: A Different Way (America Outdoors with Baratunde Thurston)