Bill Kemsley, 1928 - 2026, photo credit Taos News Known to many as “Backpacker Bill,” Kemsley founded Backpacker magazine in 1973 and later co-founded the American Hiking Society in 1976. He was a leading advocate for the Appalachian Trail, helping build public support for legislation that secured federal funding and land acquisition to protect and complete the iconic trail. In 2018, he was inducted into the A.T. Hall of Fame for his contributions to trail advocacy and conservation.
Bill's book, "One Step At A Time" is available for purchase at the Museum and HERE at our online store.
Thanks to the Taos News for information used in this article, as well as the accompanying photo.
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