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Membership Meeting 2023

The 2023 ATC Membership Meeting was held...

Membership Meeting 2024

The 2024 ATC Membership Meeting was held...

Membership Meeting 2025

Our 2025 annual membership meeting was held on August 27. Watch the meeting and learn how members can vote for the ATC's Board of Directors.

Membership Meeting 2022

The ATC’s annual membership meeting to...

Become a Member

Join the call to help Keep the Trail Alive and enjoy exclusive benefits like maps, discounts, and A.T. Journeys magazine.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s nickname is “Rocksylvania,” but it’s not all rocks. The Appalachian Trail in the state is famous for its rocky terrain, especially on the long, flat ridges north of the Susquehanna River.

Virginia

Virginia has more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state, passing through Shenandoah National Park, McAfee Knob, and the trail town of Damascus.

Volunteer Leadership Meeting 2025

The A.T. Volunteer Leadership Meeting (VLM100), held August 15-17, 2025, drew rising leaders from 27 A.T. Clubs (out of 30) along the length of the Trail.

Georgia

Annually, almost 4,000 inspired thru-hikers began their ambitious journeys at Georgia’s Springer Mountain, with the goal of hiking the entire A.T. north through 14 states to Maine.

Maryland

Maryland’s section of the Appalachian Trail attracts hikers of all abilities and interests, providing rich history and scenic day hikes within reach of D.C. and Baltimore.

West Virginia

Explore the heart of the Appalachian Trail in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, home of the ATC headquarters, and known as the Trail’s “psychological halfway point”.

MyATStory: A Lasting Legacy

Home

Maine

The A.T. in Maine is wild, challenging, and ultimately fulfilling. Maine’s tallest mountain, Katahdin, is the Trail’s spectacularly scenic northern terminus.

A.T. Landscape Partnership

The ATLP unites partners to to connect the wild, scenic, and cultural wonders of the Appalachian Trail and its surrounding landscape.

NextGen Membership

Join the next generation of Trail stewards! ATC’s NextGen membership for ages 18–30 offers benefits and community without breaking the bank.

A.T. Journeys Magazine

Explore stories from the Appalachian Trail community in the Official Magazine of the Appalachian Trail.

A.T. License Plates

A.T. license plates are available in PA, VA, TN, NC, and GA. Each plate helps fund Trail stewardship and protection.

Bylaws of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Review the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s bylaws, which guide our governance and commitment to protecting the Trail.

Tribute Gifts

A gift in honor of a friend or relative is great for graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. We'll notify the honoree of your gift.

Ways to Give FAQ

Find answers to your giving questions and discover the best way for you to Keep the Trail Alive through your support.

Tennessee

Explore Tennessee’s Appalachian Trail landscapes from the open balds of the Roan Highlands to Smoky Mountain peaks that helped earn the Trail its National Scenic Trail designation.

North Carolina

The North Carolina section of the A.T. rises to spectacular summits — including the 6,643-foot Kuwohi, the highest mountain on the A.T. — and drops down along the lush banks of the Nantahala River.

Hiawassee/Towns County, GA

Hiawassee welcomes Appalachian Trail thru hikers, day hikers, and section hikers with a wide array of hiker-friendly businesses, events, and resupply options.

Blairsville/Union County, GA

Dahlonega, GA

Dahlonega is in the heart of North Georgia's mountains, close to the A.T. and Amicalola Falls, with a rich history and a home base for trail trips.

Helen/White County, GA

Helen is a Bavarian-style village, 15 minutes from Unicoi Gap, with easy access to the AT, and is the third most visited city in Georgia.

Vermont

The A.T. through the Green Mountain State of Vermont offers an inviting and inspiring journey for hikers of all abilities.

New Hampshire

The Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire's famous White Mountains is rugged and inspiring, offering more miles above treeline—15.2—than any other Trail state.

Massachusetts

Hike the Appalachian Trail in Massachusetts through the Berkshires, with scenic peaks like Mount Greylock and serene spots like Upper Goose Pond.

New York

Hike the Appalachian Trail in New York through Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain's stunning woodlands, while catching the occasional glimpse of the Manhattan skyline in the distance.

New Jersey

The Appalachian Trail is near many of New Jersey’s major cities and New York City’s western suburbs, offering a quick escape for millions to enjoy gorgeous Appalachian scenery.

Monthly Giving

Keep the Trail Alive year-round. Become an A.T. Hero with a recurring monthly gift that protects the Appalachian Trail every day.

Pearisburg, VA

Pearisburg is a small town in the foothills of the Pearis Mountains, known for outdoor recreation, art, history, hiking, and boating.

Damascus, VA

Damascus, "Trail Town USA," is a friendly town where seven trails intersect, the first stop for NOBO hikers, and has the ATC Trail Center.

Marion/Smyth County, VA

Marion/Smyth County offers outdoor recreation, including the Appalachian Trail, Jefferson National Forest, and Mount Rogers.

Franklin, NC

Explore hiking in Franklin, NC with stunning mountain views, peaceful streams, waterfalls, and a gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

Front Royal, VA

Front Royal is the northern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley, a "Best Mid-Sized Outdoor Town" and the "Canoe Capital of Virginia".

Hot Springs, NC

One of the few towns where the Appalachian Trail runs right through downtown, Hot Springs is rich in history and natural charm.

Waynesboro, VA

Waynesboro is a charming destination near the Appalachian Trail, with a historic downtown, the South River, and a Greenway trail.

Harrisonburg, VA

Located a half-hour to the west of the Appalachian Trail's Swift Run Gap trailhead in the Shenandoah National Park, Harrisonburg welcomes hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Abingdon, VA

Abingdon is historic, scenic, and charming, located 12 miles from the Appalachian Trail, with outdoor recreation, a downtown, arts, and restaurants.

Fontana Dam, NC

Fontana Dam is the tallest in the eastern US, built in the 1940s. The Appalachian Trail crosses it, and the town offers views of the lake and mountains.

Buena Vista, VA

Buena Vista, near the Blue Ridge Mountains, is 9 miles from the AT, with hiker services, discounted park rates, and a hiker's box.

Gilmer County, GA

Gilmer County is the southern terminus of the A.T., with hiking, biking, rivers, lakes, vineyards, and the Georgia Apple Festival.

Clayton & Rabun County, GA

Rabun County hosts the Appalachian Trail, with Clayton nearby. It offers outdoor activities, state parks, and cultural venues, including the Foxfire Museum.

Clubs Explore New Ways of Engaging Volunteers

There is more than one way to engage and retain volunteers. Here are a few examples and studies that support a need for diverse strategies in volunteer management.  

Protected: Board of Directors Portal

Invasive Species: A Growing Threat to the Trail’s Biodiversity

Non-native invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the Appalachian Trail ecosystem, rapidly spreading and outcompeting native plants and animals. The ATC is tackling this crisis through science-based management, partnerships, and community involvement to protect the Trail’s biodiversity across its 2,000 miles.

How You Can Take Action

As the ATC celebrates a century of protecting the Appalachian Trail, we look forward to the next 100 years of stewardship, adventure, and community. If you love the A.T. and want to support its future, here are five impactful ways to get involved and make a difference during our centennial year.

The Appalachian Trail Bill of 1978

The Appalachian Trail Bill of 1978 marks a pivotal moment in the history of the A.T. and the ATC.

Benton MacKaye Leadership Society

Membership in the Benton MacKaye Leadership Society is reserved for those who make annual contributions of $10,000 or more. The generosity of these leaders provides the foundation for all that the Appalachian Trail Conservancy aspires to achieve.

A.T. Caucus

The A.T. Caucus connects Members of Congress with Trail priorities, helping advance conservation and stewardship policies.

2024 2,000-Miler Takeaways

To celebrate the achievements of the thru-hiking class of 2024, we’ve gathered some of the stories submitted by those who have sent in their applications to be officially recognized as 2,000-Milers.

What You Need to Know About Appalachian Trail Days

Appalachian Trail Days, an annual festival celebrating all things A.T., is coming up May 16-18, 2025, in Damascus, Virginia. Curious about Trail Days or planning your trip? We’ve gathered the information about our programming and other can't miss Trail Days happenings to help you make the most of your time at Appalachian Trail Days.

Why I Support the ATC

In this season of giving, explore reasons why people like you choose to support the work of the ATC, this year and every year.

A Shared Experience

The Appalachian Trail unites and inspires a group of women through the sights and sounds of nature.

Hidden in the Details: Protecting the Metalmark Butterfly

An effort to revive the rare northern metalmark butterfly will benefit a wide range of other native species along the Appalachian Trail.

Something to be Savored

After completing a decade-long section hike of the entire Appalachian Trail (A.T.), Michele and Dan Coleman discuss the joy (and challenges) of hiking with children, the community of hikers and Trail-lovers they met along the way, and how spreading their adventure over time taught them to savor every moment.

Suite of Life

Ash tree protection is integral to a healthy Appalachian Trail ecosystem.

Coming into Focus: George Masa’s Legacy

Known by many as the “Ansel Adams of the Smokies,” George Masa’s photography of sweeping Appalachian landscapes was instrumental in the formation of the Appalachian Trail and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

A.T. the Heart

Dive into four Appalachian Trail stories that show that everyone's connection to the Trail has its own powerful back story.

A Salve for the Heart and Soul

Spending time in nature provides a path to health, restoration and flourishing love.

A Love Letter to the Trail

ATC President & CEO Sandra Marra discusses how the relationship with her husband, Chris, was nurtured on and by the Appalachian Trail.

Getting to Work

The second century of the Appalachian Trail requires all of us - a collective community working together to ensure that the Trail's many benefits are available for generations.

What Were You Thinking, Benton?

Benton MacKaye has been labeled as many things — wilderness advocate, political radical, philosopher, dreamer — but each of these descriptions tells only part of his story on the way to envisioning the Appalachian Trail in 1921.

From Trauma to Dream

Author Larry Anderson explores Benton MacKaye’s troubled path to the Appalachian Trail.

The Work Ahead

This October marks 100 years since Benton MacKaye published his vision for the Appalachian Trail. ATC President & CEO Sandra Marra looks back at what has been accomplished since then, and the path ahead for fully realizing that vision.

Step Away – Step In

Writer Marina Richie explores the nature of beauty on the Appalachian Trail.

Celebrate National Trails Day

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy joins the American Hiking Society in celebrating National Trails Day on June 3, 2023! National Trails Day is a celebration and a day of service for trails and the people who love them. Explore ways to show some love for the A.T. on National Trails Day.

Loving the Trail

David Field shares how experiencing the A.T., especially as a volunteer Trail worker, can lead to loving the Trail.

Trail Family

David Brill shares how his Trail family merged and melded together throughout the experience of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 1979.

A.T. Trailblazers

A.T. Trailblazers are the backbone of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission, a special community of donors whose support allow us to plan boldly and confidently in protecting the Trail for generations to come.

Board Announcement

The ATC announces new appointments to the Board of Directors.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy President and CEO Sandra Marra Announces Retirement

Appalachian Trail Conservancy President and CEO Sandra Marra announced that she will conclude her service as the nonprofit’s leader in January 2026.

Call for Nominations: ATC Board of Directors

Nominations for positions on ATC’s Board of Directors are being accepted until May 27, 2025. This year, we will welcome seven board members, some of whom are returning directors.

FarOut Becomes the Official Hiking App of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Partnership will enhance the Appalachian Trail mapping resources available on the FarOut app and ATC member benefits.

Club Happenings

Clubs from across the Trail share their successes and challenges when it comes to a variety of projects that they are working on in support of the Appalachian Trail.

The Century Past and the Century Ahead

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Stewardship Council explored questions around effective shared stewardship for the next century during its fall meeting.

Remembering Tom Johnson, an A.T. Legend

Tom Johnson, former president of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club and longtime volunteer and advocate for the A.T., passed away on December 5, 2020.

Membership Meeting 2023

The 2023 ATC Membership Meeting was held...

Membership Meeting 2024

The 2024 ATC Membership Meeting was held...

Membership Meeting 2025

Our 2025 annual membership meeting was held on August 27. Watch the meeting and learn how members can vote for the ATC's Board of Directors.

Membership Meeting 2022

The ATC’s annual membership meeting to...

Volunteer Leadership Meeting 2025

The A.T. Volunteer Leadership Meeting (VLM100), held August 15-17, 2025, drew rising leaders from 27 A.T. Clubs (out of 30) along the length of the Trail.

MyATStory: A Lasting Legacy

Clubs Explore New Ways of Engaging Volunteers

There is more than one way to engage and retain volunteers. Here are a few examples and studies that support a need for diverse strategies in volunteer management.  

Invasive Species: A Growing Threat to the Trail’s Biodiversity

Non-native invasive species are one of the greatest threats to the Appalachian Trail ecosystem, rapidly spreading and outcompeting native plants and animals. The ATC is tackling this crisis through science-based management, partnerships, and community involvement to protect the Trail’s biodiversity across its 2,000 miles.

How You Can Take Action

As the ATC celebrates a century of protecting the Appalachian Trail, we look forward to the next 100 years of stewardship, adventure, and community. If you love the A.T. and want to support its future, here are five impactful ways to get involved and make a difference during our centennial year.

The Appalachian Trail Bill of 1978

The Appalachian Trail Bill of 1978 marks a pivotal moment in the history of the A.T. and the ATC.

2024 2,000-Miler Takeaways

To celebrate the achievements of the thru-hiking class of 2024, we’ve gathered some of the stories submitted by those who have sent in their applications to be officially recognized as 2,000-Milers.

What You Need to Know About Appalachian Trail Days

Appalachian Trail Days, an annual festival celebrating all things A.T., is coming up May 16-18, 2025, in Damascus, Virginia. Curious about Trail Days or planning your trip? We’ve gathered the information about our programming and other can't miss Trail Days happenings to help you make the most of your time at Appalachian Trail Days.

Why I Support the ATC

In this season of giving, explore reasons why people like you choose to support the work of the ATC, this year and every year.

A Shared Experience

The Appalachian Trail unites and inspires a group of women through the sights and sounds of nature.

Hidden in the Details: Protecting the Metalmark Butterfly

An effort to revive the rare northern metalmark butterfly will benefit a wide range of other native species along the Appalachian Trail.

Something to be Savored

After completing a decade-long section hike of the entire Appalachian Trail (A.T.), Michele and Dan Coleman discuss the joy (and challenges) of hiking with children, the community of hikers and Trail-lovers they met along the way, and how spreading their adventure over time taught them to savor every moment.

Suite of Life

Ash tree protection is integral to a healthy Appalachian Trail ecosystem.

Coming into Focus: George Masa’s Legacy

Known by many as the “Ansel Adams of the Smokies,” George Masa’s photography of sweeping Appalachian landscapes was instrumental in the formation of the Appalachian Trail and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

A.T. the Heart

Dive into four Appalachian Trail stories that show that everyone's connection to the Trail has its own powerful back story.

A Salve for the Heart and Soul

Spending time in nature provides a path to health, restoration and flourishing love.

A Love Letter to the Trail

ATC President & CEO Sandra Marra discusses how the relationship with her husband, Chris, was nurtured on and by the Appalachian Trail.

Getting to Work

The second century of the Appalachian Trail requires all of us - a collective community working together to ensure that the Trail's many benefits are available for generations.

What Were You Thinking, Benton?

Benton MacKaye has been labeled as many things — wilderness advocate, political radical, philosopher, dreamer — but each of these descriptions tells only part of his story on the way to envisioning the Appalachian Trail in 1921.

From Trauma to Dream

Author Larry Anderson explores Benton MacKaye’s troubled path to the Appalachian Trail.

The Work Ahead

This October marks 100 years since Benton MacKaye published his vision for the Appalachian Trail. ATC President & CEO Sandra Marra looks back at what has been accomplished since then, and the path ahead for fully realizing that vision.

Step Away – Step In

Writer Marina Richie explores the nature of beauty on the Appalachian Trail.

Celebrate National Trails Day

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy joins the American Hiking Society in celebrating National Trails Day on June 3, 2023! National Trails Day is a celebration and a day of service for trails and the people who love them. Explore ways to show some love for the A.T. on National Trails Day.

Loving the Trail

David Field shares how experiencing the A.T., especially as a volunteer Trail worker, can lead to loving the Trail.

Trail Family

David Brill shares how his Trail family merged and melded together throughout the experience of an Appalachian Trail thru-hike in 1979.

Board Announcement

The ATC announces new appointments to the Board of Directors.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy President and CEO Sandra Marra Announces Retirement

Appalachian Trail Conservancy President and CEO Sandra Marra announced that she will conclude her service as the nonprofit’s leader in January 2026.

Call for Nominations: ATC Board of Directors

Nominations for positions on ATC’s Board of Directors are being accepted until May 27, 2025. This year, we will welcome seven board members, some of whom are returning directors.

FarOut Becomes the Official Hiking App of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Partnership will enhance the Appalachian Trail mapping resources available on the FarOut app and ATC member benefits.

Club Happenings

Clubs from across the Trail share their successes and challenges when it comes to a variety of projects that they are working on in support of the Appalachian Trail.

The Century Past and the Century Ahead

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s Stewardship Council explored questions around effective shared stewardship for the next century during its fall meeting.

Remembering Tom Johnson, an A.T. Legend

Tom Johnson, former president of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club and longtime volunteer and advocate for the A.T., passed away on December 5, 2020.

Become a Member

Join the call to help Keep the Trail Alive and enjoy exclusive benefits like maps, discounts, and A.T. Journeys magazine.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania’s nickname is “Rocksylvania,” but it’s not all rocks. The Appalachian Trail in the state is famous for its rocky terrain, especially on the long, flat ridges north of the Susquehanna River.

Virginia

Virginia has more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state, passing through Shenandoah National Park, McAfee Knob, and the trail town of Damascus.

Georgia

Annually, almost 4,000 inspired thru-hikers began their ambitious journeys at Georgia’s Springer Mountain, with the goal of hiking the entire A.T. north through 14 states to Maine.

Maryland

Maryland’s section of the Appalachian Trail attracts hikers of all abilities and interests, providing rich history and scenic day hikes within reach of D.C. and Baltimore.

West Virginia

Explore the heart of the Appalachian Trail in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, home of the ATC headquarters, and known as the Trail’s “psychological halfway point”.

Home

Maine

The A.T. in Maine is wild, challenging, and ultimately fulfilling. Maine’s tallest mountain, Katahdin, is the Trail’s spectacularly scenic northern terminus.

A.T. Landscape Partnership

The ATLP unites partners to to connect the wild, scenic, and cultural wonders of the Appalachian Trail and its surrounding landscape.

NextGen Membership

Join the next generation of Trail stewards! ATC’s NextGen membership for ages 18–30 offers benefits and community without breaking the bank.

A.T. Journeys Magazine

Explore stories from the Appalachian Trail community in the Official Magazine of the Appalachian Trail.

A.T. License Plates

A.T. license plates are available in PA, VA, TN, NC, and GA. Each plate helps fund Trail stewardship and protection.

Bylaws of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Review the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s bylaws, which guide our governance and commitment to protecting the Trail.

Tribute Gifts

A gift in honor of a friend or relative is great for graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions. We'll notify the honoree of your gift.

Ways to Give FAQ

Find answers to your giving questions and discover the best way for you to Keep the Trail Alive through your support.

Tennessee

Explore Tennessee’s Appalachian Trail landscapes from the open balds of the Roan Highlands to Smoky Mountain peaks that helped earn the Trail its National Scenic Trail designation.

North Carolina

The North Carolina section of the A.T. rises to spectacular summits — including the 6,643-foot Kuwohi, the highest mountain on the A.T. — and drops down along the lush banks of the Nantahala River.

Hiawassee/Towns County, GA

Hiawassee welcomes Appalachian Trail thru hikers, day hikers, and section hikers with a wide array of hiker-friendly businesses, events, and resupply options.

Blairsville/Union County, GA

Dahlonega, GA

Dahlonega is in the heart of North Georgia's mountains, close to the A.T. and Amicalola Falls, with a rich history and a home base for trail trips.

Helen/White County, GA

Helen is a Bavarian-style village, 15 minutes from Unicoi Gap, with easy access to the AT, and is the third most visited city in Georgia.

Vermont

The A.T. through the Green Mountain State of Vermont offers an inviting and inspiring journey for hikers of all abilities.

New Hampshire

The Appalachian Trail in New Hampshire's famous White Mountains is rugged and inspiring, offering more miles above treeline—15.2—than any other Trail state.

Massachusetts

Hike the Appalachian Trail in Massachusetts through the Berkshires, with scenic peaks like Mount Greylock and serene spots like Upper Goose Pond.

New York

Hike the Appalachian Trail in New York through Harriman State Park and Bear Mountain's stunning woodlands, while catching the occasional glimpse of the Manhattan skyline in the distance.

New Jersey

The Appalachian Trail is near many of New Jersey’s major cities and New York City’s western suburbs, offering a quick escape for millions to enjoy gorgeous Appalachian scenery.

Monthly Giving

Keep the Trail Alive year-round. Become an A.T. Hero with a recurring monthly gift that protects the Appalachian Trail every day.

Pearisburg, VA

Pearisburg is a small town in the foothills of the Pearis Mountains, known for outdoor recreation, art, history, hiking, and boating.

Damascus, VA

Damascus, "Trail Town USA," is a friendly town where seven trails intersect, the first stop for NOBO hikers, and has the ATC Trail Center.

Marion/Smyth County, VA

Marion/Smyth County offers outdoor recreation, including the Appalachian Trail, Jefferson National Forest, and Mount Rogers.

Franklin, NC

Explore hiking in Franklin, NC with stunning mountain views, peaceful streams, waterfalls, and a gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

Front Royal, VA

Front Royal is the northern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley, a "Best Mid-Sized Outdoor Town" and the "Canoe Capital of Virginia".

Hot Springs, NC

One of the few towns where the Appalachian Trail runs right through downtown, Hot Springs is rich in history and natural charm.

Waynesboro, VA

Waynesboro is a charming destination near the Appalachian Trail, with a historic downtown, the South River, and a Greenway trail.

Harrisonburg, VA

Located a half-hour to the west of the Appalachian Trail's Swift Run Gap trailhead in the Shenandoah National Park, Harrisonburg welcomes hikers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Abingdon, VA

Abingdon is historic, scenic, and charming, located 12 miles from the Appalachian Trail, with outdoor recreation, a downtown, arts, and restaurants.

Fontana Dam, NC

Fontana Dam is the tallest in the eastern US, built in the 1940s. The Appalachian Trail crosses it, and the town offers views of the lake and mountains.

Buena Vista, VA

Buena Vista, near the Blue Ridge Mountains, is 9 miles from the AT, with hiker services, discounted park rates, and a hiker's box.

Gilmer County, GA

Gilmer County is the southern terminus of the A.T., with hiking, biking, rivers, lakes, vineyards, and the Georgia Apple Festival.

Clayton & Rabun County, GA

Rabun County hosts the Appalachian Trail, with Clayton nearby. It offers outdoor activities, state parks, and cultural venues, including the Foxfire Museum.

Protected: Board of Directors Portal

Benton MacKaye Leadership Society

Membership in the Benton MacKaye Leadership Society is reserved for those who make annual contributions of $10,000 or more. The generosity of these leaders provides the foundation for all that the Appalachian Trail Conservancy aspires to achieve.

A.T. Caucus

The A.T. Caucus connects Members of Congress with Trail priorities, helping advance conservation and stewardship policies.

A.T. Trailblazers

A.T. Trailblazers are the backbone of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission, a special community of donors whose support allow us to plan boldly and confidently in protecting the Trail for generations to come.