Appalachian Trail was formed around 1984.Original members Linda Lay and Carson Cooper were traveling to their first show and didn't have a name for the band, when they saw a sign that read 'Appalachian Trail' and decided on that until they thought of something better....20 years later, Appy Trail is still burning new trails in the bluegrass arena. This band helped cultivate the careers of the likes of Adam Steffey,John Bowman,Becky Buller and countless others. It is a renewal time, for the band has two new members,a new CD,and original material.

Vickie Austin heads up lead vocals/harmony/songwriting, and upright acoustic bass, Tommy Austin lead/harmony vocals,songwriting,mandolin/mandola, Tim Laughlin harmony/fiddle/mandolin, Glen Rose on banjo, Josh Goforth on lead/harmony vocals,songwriting,guitar,fiddle,banjo. This lineup has toured in practically every country and all across the US. Appalachian Trail has won the highly acclaimed SPBGMA band championship, and each member has won countless awards on their own. Tommy has been with the group for seven years,Josh for two, Tim was a member in years past, and Glen and Vickie are the new kids on the block. Carson Cooper continues to be a strong mentor to the group, but had to retire from playing due to battling liver cancer. Linda has recorded on the Cracker Barrel label and has formed a new band, Springfield Exit. The numerous former and present members of Appalachian Trail continue to be close friends who are tied by a bond of their love for music.

With a new CD in spring, Appy Trail has the ammo to start afresh on the festival circuit/music venues. One of the original songs, written by Tommy, has already been chosen as a finalist in the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest at Merlefest 2004.

Look for these guys (and gal) anywhere around TN, VA, NC this summer. They are gearing up to hit the trails!