Gina Heslop
In a world where technology has become an integral part of our lives, it’s hard to imagine navigating without GPS, but before the era of maps and technology, there were other ways to find one’s way, and it involved a deep connection with nature. The story delves into the intriguing history of bent trees, which served as natural landmarks and guides for indigenous people in the United States.
Many trees across the country exhibit peculiar shapes, with kinks and bends that seem out of place in the natural world. However, these trees hold a secret purpose rooted in the heritage of Native Americans. These unusual trees are known as “trail trees,” and they were deliberately bent and shaped by Native Americans to create permanent markers, designating safe routes through rugged terrain and pointing travelers toward essential resources such as water, food, and landmarks.
The trail trees have stood the test of time, preserving their original forms as the modern world developed around them. While we may no longer need these trail trees for navigation, their historical significance makes them invaluable. They hold the stories of the people who once relied on them for guidance and survival.
One notable feature that distinguishes these man-made trail trees from naturally bent trees is the presence of a distinct “nose” or notch at the end of the bend. Native Americans achieved this by placing a section of the tree into a hole and allowing it to grow around it. Additionally, the scars from straps used when the trees were young may still be visible on the top part of the inner bend.
Many of these trail trees are ancient, with some dating back 150-200 years. However, the growing human population poses a threat to their existence, as they may be subject to logging shortly. To preserve this unique part of American history, the Mountain Stewards website has undertaken the task of mapping over 1,000 twisted trees across the country, documenting their locations and significance.
The hope is that people of all ages, both young and old, will take the opportunity to visit these remarkable pieces of American history before they vanish. These trail trees are not only a testament to the ingenuity of Native American communities but also a reminder of the profound connection between humans and nature in the quest for survival and guidance in a time before technology dominated our lives.
