The Backcountry Trail Foundation has been made possible with the help of many, but one individual stands out among the rest, Susan Shallow. A philanthropist at heart, truly a humanitarian, who believed the vision of the backcountry trail could be achieved with the support and awareness of our community.
Active participants in the Backcountry Trail’s growth, Susan Shallow and Phillip West brought the vision to light with the blessing of Mr. Hugh Branyon, the Superintendent of the park for 35 years. This trio gave birth to the trail in 2003 with a great team of volunteers. A special thank you to Nicole Woerner – Coastal Resource Planner, Larry Ellis – Forester for the City of Orange Beach and Lisa Laraway – Gulf State Parks Superintendent, the BP Grant support, along with many other advocates who help make this local treasure possible.