Barefoot trails exist on two continents as a way to connect with nature this Earth Day. These pathways are located nearly 9,700 kilometers (6,000 miles) apart and are designed for visitors to use without wearing socks or shoes. The owner of The Barefoot Trail park near Flagstaff, Arizona, opened a manicured trail of the same length two years ago after a family trip in Europe. Leah Williams believes that walking barefoot on varied surfaces may contribute to emotional well-being and overall foot health. The idea of barefoot walking has been around for over a century, with the influence of 19th century German Catholic priest Sebastian Kneipp, who promoted nature exposure, water therapy and barefoot walk as exercise and support overall health, including immune function.