May 13, 2022
Trailway News: Time for Trail Days!
Trail Days has officially begun! The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is excited to join this annual celebration of all things Appalachian Trail (A.T.) taking place in beautiful Damascus, Virginia (a.k.a. “Trail Town U.S.A.”). Be sure to follow us on Instagram throughout the event as we provide updates and photos. For those planning on participating, stop by our booth at the Damascus Trail Center to join our events and enter raffles for great backpacking prizes!
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May 6, 2022
Trailway News: Trail Days is almost here!
In less than a week, the ATC will join the Town of Damascus, Virginia, to celebrate the 35th annual Appalachian Trail Days Festival! This one-of-a-kind event brings together hikers, communities, volunteers, and supporters from around the country to celebrate the opportunities and benefits provided by the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).
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April 29, 2022
Trailway News: Under the Night Sky
This week marks International Dark Sky Week, where we celebrate and commit to protecting the world’s beautiful (and vulnerable) night skies. Dark night skies along the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) landscape help protect the routes of migratory species impacted by light pollution and nocturnal species that rely on the cover of night for foraging — and, of course, star-filled night skies are an irreplaceable part of the A.T. experience we all love.
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April 22, 2022
Trailway News: Happy Earth Day
To us at the ATC, every day is Earth Day! Even so, this special day reminds people around the world how important it is to protect the environment, live sustainably, and give back to our planet. As a volunteer, supporter, or advocate for the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), you are helping to make the world and the A.T. a more wonderful place.
Celebrate Earth Day by pledging to care for the A.T. and our planet. As a thank you for taking our Earth Day pledge, we will send you a free ATC sticker!
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April 15, 2022
Trailway News: Connected by the Trail
Around the world, billions of people will celebrate Earth Day (April 22) together by taking action to help our planet. From picking up trash to participating in volunteer events to planting native grasses and wildflowers, small actions can help make the planet and the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) better for all.
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April 8, 2022
Trailway News: Pack it Out
Spring weather is slowly making its way up the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), with blooming wildflowers welcoming visitors in the southern sections. Early spring, however, can be deceptive — hikers should still be prepared for sudden wintry weather for the next several weeks, especially at higher elevations. This weekend is a perfect example, as hikers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park will experience below-freezing temperatures and up to six inches of snow. Make sure you are prepared for inclement A.T. weather by checking our Trail Updates page and packing the essentials for a safe, enjoyable hike.
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April 1, 2022
Trailway News: April Showers
April is officially here! While hundreds of hikers have already begun the journey from Springer Mountain to attempt a northbound thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), a growing number of adventurers will soon attempt a twist on the thru-hike formula: a “flip-flop” thru-hike.
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March 25, 2022
Trailway News: Running the Ridges
Have you ever met a ridgerunner while exploring the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)? These Trail-tested individuals live and work on (and for) the Trail, especially at locations that experience high volumes of hikers.
So what all does a ridgerunner do? With the help of two experienced ATC ridgerunners, we answer some of the most common questions you’ve asked about this one-of-a-kind role in our latest blog post.
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March 18, 2022
Trailway News: Stepping into Spring
This Sunday marks the first day of spring, and many hikers will be escaping to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) to enjoy the upcoming warm weather and longer daylight hours. Before you head out on your own A.T. adventures, make sure you are equipped with the skills and gear you need by checking out our Hiker Resource Library. From gear lists and safety information to the latest Trail conditions, you’ll have everything you need to put some spring in your step.
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March 11, 2022
Trailway News: Say It Ain’t Snow…
While our clocks “spring forward” this Sunday, many parts of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) are experiencing the lingering effects of winter. This weekend, the Trail is expected to see heavy snowfall/mixed precipitation, freezing temperatures (especially in high elevations), and high winds from Georgia to Maine. So if you are on the Trail currently or are planning to hike this weekend, make sure to be prepared or adjust your plans accordingly.
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March 4, 2022
Trailway News: Celebrating Our 97th Anniversary
Yesterday we celebrated our 97th anniversary and would like to thank you for taking this journey with us! Over the years, the ATC has proudly continued the legacy of protecting, managing, and advocating for the Appalachian Trail so that millions each year can enjoy all the Trail has to offer.
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February 25, 2022
Trailway News: The Right Foundation
One of the most beautiful aspects of an Appalachian Trail (A.T.) story is hearing how it has inspired people to share their love for the Trail with others. This week, we’re excited to share a three-part piece, first published in the Winter 2022 issue of A.T. Journeys, featuring stories by Michelle Holmes and Derrick Z. Jackson on how the outdoors is at the center of their family, friendships and life.
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February 18, 2022
Trailway News: A Salve for the Heart and Soul
As we head into the weekend, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is proud to share this piece with you from the Winter 2022 issue of A.T. Journeys, our official membership magazine.
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February 11, 2022
Trailway News: Sending You Our Love From the ATC
While we celebrate our love for the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) each day, February marks a special month and occasion. Please enjoy this preview article from our upcoming issue of A.T. Journeys magazine, the official membership magazine of the ATC. President & CEO Sandra Marra discusses how the relationship with her husband, Chris, was nurtured by a shared love for the Trail.
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February 4, 2022
Trailway News: Love Letters to the Trail
Throughout February, we are excited to feature your Love Letters to the A.T., which will highlight the many ways that people fell in love with the Trail, and what keeps that love going year after year. Thank you to everyone who submitted to this series! We begin this series with two inspiring stories.
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January 28, 2022
Trailway News: An Act of Love
Let’s work together to enjoy the outdoors responsibly! Whether it is your first visit to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) or your fiftieth, there are many ways to care for the Trail while you enjoy it. From packing out trash to being prepared for unfavorable weather, the seven principles of Leave No Trace are simple, yet effective ethics to guide A.T. hiking adventures.
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January 24, 2022
Trailway News: Plan Ahead and Prepare
Are you ready for a 2022 Appalachian Trail (A.T.) adventure?
Whether you are planning an overnight trip or an entire 2,193.4-mile trek on the A.T., we’ve put together a list of tips that will help you prepare for your next hike on the Trail.
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January 18, 2022
Trailway News: Brrr!
Brrr! A major winter storm is expected to impact the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) beginning Saturday, January 15, with snowfall, sleet/freezing rain and below-freezing temperatures in the forecast from Georgia to Maine. A.T. hikers should use extreme caution and prepare for downed trees, ice and slippery Trail conditions.
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January 7, 2022
Trailway News: Thank You
We wanted to start 2022 with two important words: thank you.
Without your support — whether that be through your donations, volunteerism, spreading the word about Appalachian Trail (A.T.) protection, being a voice on issues that affect the Trail, or simply recreating responsibly on the world’s longest hiking-only footpath — the A.T. would not be the landmark of conservation and inspiration we all know it as today. Many refer to the A.T. as “The People’s Trail” for a good reason: it only exists because of people like you.
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December 30, 2021
Trailway News: See You Next Year
We at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) are proud of the impact we made together in 2021. It was your love of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and your support of the ATC that helped make this impact possible. As we head into the new year, we wanted to take a look back at some of our accomplishments in 2021 and look forward to our work ahead.
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December 23, 2021
Trailway News: Happy Holidays
Happy Holidays from all of us at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC)! You’re receiving this issue of Trailway News a day early since the ATC will be closed for the holidays. The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) itself is still open and ready for wintertime adventures.
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December 17, 2021
Trailway News: Keeping It Moving
Hikers aren’t the only ones who follow the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)! The Trail traverses ecosystems ranging from alpine summits to wetlands, creating a connected natural corridor traveled by all sorts of wildlife — from majestic moose to tiny cerulean warblers. In our latest blog post, we explore how A.T. wildlife increasingly depends on a continuous, protected A.T. Landscape as the impacts of climate change worsen.
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December 10, 2021
Trailway News: Getting to Work
2021 was a monumental year in the history of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), celebrating 100 years since Benton MacKaye first envisioned an unbroken footpath from Georgia to Maine. Throughout the year, we have reflected on how much has been accomplished in the creation, management, and protection of the Trail. As we enter into the second century of the A.T., join us as we look ahead at the work that must still be accomplished to help meet MacKaye’s vision and ensure the Trail continues to be a source of recreation, conservation, and inspiration for generations to come.
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December 3, 2021
Trailway News: 2021’s Final Stretch
The end of 2021 is just around the corner, and we all know what that means: it’s time to start planning next year’s adventures! In order to help you best prepare for any upcoming trips on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).
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November 19, 2021
Trailway News: A Few Steps Farther in 2022
There is officially more of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) to love in 2022, with its official length becoming 2,194.3 miles!
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November 12, 2021
Trailway News: It’s Almost Take A Hike Day!
One of our favorite unofficial holidays is coming up on November 17: National Take A Hike Day! This day is a great reason (or “excuse” should you need one) to pull together gear, lace up your boots and head to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).
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November 5, 2021
Trailway News: What Were You Thinking, Benton?
Did you wake up to frost on your tent this week? Many sections of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) recently got a taste of winter weather, with temperatures plunging to freezing (or below) along much of the Trail. Before you head out for any upcoming adventures, check out our tips for hiking in wintry conditions and make sure you are prepared in case the weather takes a turn for the chilly.
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October 29, 2021
Trailway News: Trek or Treat
Happy Halloween from the ATC! For those of you looking to treat yourself to an Appalachian Trail-themed holiday, we’ve got you covered — we have three jack-o’-lantern stencils ready for carving! Whether you use these stencils or craft your own A.T. designs, be sure to share a picture of your creations (and any other photos from your A.T. adventures) on social media and tag them with #atcspotlight!
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October 22, 2021
Trailway News: The Second Century
The chill of winter has arrived at the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)! On October 20, Baxter State Park announced that all Katahdin trails, including the Hunt Trail (which the A.T. follows to Baxter Peak), are closed due to winter conditions. This seasonal closure helps protect fragile alpine environments and keeps hikers safe when trail markings are obscured.
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October 15, 2021
Trailway News: 100 Years in the Making
One hundred years ago this month, Benton MacKaye published a visionary article proposing what he called “the Appalachian Trail.” A century later, his vision-turned-reality connects millions of people to the awesome beauty of the Appalachian Mountains where they find communion with nature, new adventures, or even a simple walk in the woods.
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October 8, 2021
Trailway News: Why I Hike
A few months ago, we asked you a question: “Why do you hike?”
You shared so many great and inspiring stories with us about what hiking on the Appalachian Trail means to you, how it has impacted your lives, and what draws you back to the Trail again and again.
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October 1, 2021
Trailway News: Boots Below, Wings Above
During this time of the year, there are more than leaves floating above the Appalachian Trail. Many migratory bird species, like hawks, eagles and warblers, follow the A.T. to their wintertime homes using the Trail corridor as a refuge. During your autumn A.T. adventures — perhaps to see the fall foliage — be sure to look to the skies for migratory birds passing overhead.
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September 24, 2021
Trailway News: Changing of the Seasons
Welcome, Autumn! This past Wednesday (September 22) marked the transition from hot summer days to the beginning of crisp aired mornings. And this upcoming Saturday (September 25) ushers in one of the largest single-day volunteer events in the United States – National Public Lands Day.
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September 17, 2021
Trailway News: Protecting the A.T. Hiking Experience
What would the Appalachian Trail be without its visitors? Millions step onto the A.T. each year to find adventures, spend time with family and friends, and gain a closer connection with nature. One of the key roles of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is protecting the A.T. hiking experience, which we accomplish through effective visitor use management. Through this work, we help ensure these experiences continue to be available for future generations of A.T. visitors — and that the Trail itself continues to be conserved and maintained.
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September 10, 2021
Trailway News: From Recreation to Conservation
We start the weekend with a note of caution: the ATC has received multiple reports of COVID-19 infections along the Appalachian Trail in Maine, including a significant increase in the area around Monson and the 100-Mile Wilderness. We continue to encourage all A.T. visitors to practice extreme caution — even if already fully vaccinated against COVID-19 — in order to minimize the risk of contracting this highly infectious virus or potentially spreading it to others.
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September 3, 2021
Trailway News: Season of Preparedness
As we spend more time on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), we learn more about ourselves along the way. And our growth can be seen by the people in our lives. The experiences we have on the A.T. can encourage and inspire others to seek their own moments of peace, solitude, and adventure on the Trail, too.
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August 27, 2021
Trailway News: Stewardship Shines Bright
The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) is supported through the dedicated work of volunteers that help maintain and monitor not only the footpath but also the surrounding landscape.
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August 20, 2021
Trailway News: In the Trail, There is Hope
The anxiety produced by recent news on climate change, and its impacts on the human and natural worlds, can be paralyzing. It’s easy to spiral into a loop of despair given the scale and complexity of the problem. Fortunately, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) has always worked to create large-scale impacts, almost always by convening people and partners for a common purpose. Today, we find ourselves working with an ever-growing list of partners, connecting to a vast community of Trail lovers and supporters, and protecting resources (including the Appalachian Trail and its surrounding landscape) that can help reduce and adapt to climate change. In our work and the A.T. itself, we find both solutions and hope.
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August 13, 2021
Trailway News: So Many Ways to Engage
Appalachian Trail (A.T.) stewardship comes in many forms. It’s the on-the-ground work of incredible volunteers, support from donors and members, and the behind-the-scenes work of staff and partners. This summer, Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) Federal Policy Intern Kate Foral combined her environmental education and public health knowledge with her love of the Appalachian region to help protect the cultural and natural resources along the Trail as well as the people who go to experience a walk in the woods.
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August 6, 2021
Trailway News: The Call of the Trail
Why are we drawn by the wilderness along the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)?
The Trail, located within a day’s drive of over two-thirds of the United States population, provides an opportunity to reconnect more deeply with ourselves and the world around us.
In this week’s featured article, Mark Ellison measures the depth of the connection we each have to nature and its transformative power.
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July 30, 2021
Trailway News: From Advocacy to Action
When you hear the words “the Appalachian Trail,” chances are you think about more than the world-famous footpath itself. The awe-inspiring vistas; the green tunnels of rhododendron; the native plants and animals that call the Trail home; the campsites and shelters where hikers share stories of their adventures; all of these continue to exist because of those who have advocated in some way for the A.T. and its surrounding landscapes to be protected.
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July 23, 2021
Trailway News: July Flies
Let us ask you a question: “Why do you hike?”
Exercise, quality time with family and friends, reconnecting with nature (and ourselves) — spending time on the Appalachian Trail can provide all of these things and more. The answer lies in our individual experiences and collected memories from the Trail.
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July 16, 2021
Trailway News: The Beauty of the Trail
“What makes the Appalachian Trail beautiful?” It’s a question that might receive a different answer from every person you ask. For today’s Trailway News, we are featuring an article by writer Kim O’Connell that explores the beauty found everywhere on the Trail.
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July 9, 2021
Trailway News: Hiking Between the Raindrops
The summer storm season is here, and being prepared for inclement weather is an essential part of any Appalachian Trail hike. Weather conditions on the A.T. can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations — make sure to check the weather forecast and Trail Updates before heading out the door.
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July 2, 2021
Trailway News: It’s July (No Lie!)
Happy Independence Day Weekend! Does your holiday plan include a hike on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)? If so, help us protect and preserve the Trail and its surrounding landscape by recreating responsibly!
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June 25, 2021
Trailway News: Summertime Adventures
It’s summertime! On the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), summer means warmer temperatures, blooming wildflowers and the lush green tunnel of the A.T. footpath. It also means severe weather, bugs and heat-related illnesses. As we count down the days and hours to our next hike, here are a few tips to make your next A.T. adventure safe and successful:
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June 18, 2021
Trailway News: A Changing of the Seasons
Tomorrow is Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Multiple sites along the Appalachian Trail corridor remind us of the struggle of Black Americans to achieve their freedom, including Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, home of ATC headquarters and the site of John Brown’s Raid.
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June 11, 2021
Trailway News: Hiking Prep & Trail Updates
Yesterday evening, the ATC hosted a special live event, “Rescuing the Planet: The Appalachian Trail’s Role in Worldwide Conservation,” a virtual discussion about the importance of land conservation for the future of our planet. Thank you to everyone that was able to join us live and submitted questions for the event!
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June 4, 2021
Trailway News: Thank You, Laurie
Today, please join us in saying “Happy Trails!” (but not goodbye) to Laurie Potteiger, who is retiring from her role as Information Services Manager after 33 years with the ATC.
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May 28, 2021
Trailway News: Get Outside, Give Back
Many of us will soon be adventuring to places like the Appalachian Trail to take advantage of the longer days and beautiful weather — and maybe to be serenaded by a few billion cicadas.
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May 21, 2021
Trailway News: Rescuing the Planet
As we continue our work to maintain, protect, and advocate for the Appalachian Trail, one of our key priorities is keeping you informed on the issues affecting the footpath and its surrounding landscape. On June 10 at 7 p.m. EDT, we are proud to present our next live discussion: “Rescuing the Planet: The Appalachian Trail’s Role in Worldwide Conservation.” Featuring author Tony Hiss and conservationist John Griffin, we will explore how conserving lands like the A.T. will play an important role in the future of our planet.
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May 14, 2021
Trailway News: The Next Step
After more than a year, we are excited to resume some of our programs that were put on pause due to COVID-19 safety precautions. With the widespread availability of multiple vaccines and relaxed guidelines by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we have resumed our 2,000-miler recognition program, will begin issuing 2021 A.T. hangtags later this month, and will reopen our A.T. visitor centers in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia (May 27, 2021) and Monson, Maine (June 2, 2021).
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May 7, 2021
Trailway News: Thank You, Moms!
This upcoming Sunday, we celebrate our moms. The amount of love, support, patience, kindness, and inspiration our moms provide is immeasurable. But how many of us can count our moms as our personal Trail angels? Most of us know Trail angels as the people whose generosity and kindness make our hikes better. My mom, who introduced me to hiking when I was very young, made my hike possible.
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April 30, 2021
Trailway News: It’s Gonna Be May
Happy last day of April! The days are getting longer, and there is positive news about the COVID-19 pandemic and outdoor recreation. Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released updated mask guidance for outdoor activities: folks (vaccinated or not) no longer need to wear masks when they “walk, run, or bike outdoors with members of your household,” and small groups of both fully vaccinated and unvaccinated people can meet outdoors safely.
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April 23, 2021
Trailway News: Every Day is Earth Day
Earth Day has come and gone, but doing our part to conserve our planet is something that should be on our minds every day! For the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, that means not only caring for the iconic 2,193.1-mile footpath from Maine to Georgia, but also the surrounding landscapes that provide jaw-dropping views, vital wildlife habitats, and, importantly, will help play an important role in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
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April 16, 2021
Trailway News: Celebrate Earth Day
We are less than a week away from Earth Day, when we are all reminded that the natural environment, from which we derive so many benefits, deserves protection. For the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, that means managing, protecting, and advocating for the Appalachian Trail and its surrounding landscape — not just for those of us who seek it out today but also for the generations who follow in our footsteps.
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April 9, 2021
Trailway News: Think of the Bears
Happy National Wildlife Week! As many of us celebrate the warmer weather by heading to the great outdoors, remember that we are sharing places like the Appalachian Trail with the plants and animals that call them home. Always follow Leave No Trace Principles to ensure they stay healthy — and, in the case of black bears on the A.T., that hikers and bears alike stay safe.
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April 2, 2021
Trailway News: April Showers
Spring has finally arrived! Along with it comes the spring rains, of course, and some recent rainstorms provide a good reminder to be prepared for rapidly changing Appalachian Trail conditions.
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March 26, 2021
Trailway News: The A.T. is a solution
In continuation of our ongoing series on climate change, we hosted a virtual conversation with climate experts Harvey Locke and Charles C. Chester about one of the most pressing issues facing the Appalachian Trail and the rest of the world: climate change.
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March 19, 2021
Trailway News: Spring is Almost Here
Spring is almost here! With warmer temperatures arriving and wildflowers soon beginning to bloom, more visitors will be coming to the Appalachian Trail.
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March 12, 2021
Trailway News: The (Clock) Times Are a-Changin’
Is that spring weather we feel? With warmer temperatures becoming more common and daylight saving time beginning this weekend (so long, an hour of sleep), the Appalachian Trail will be a destination for many of you in the near future.
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March 5, 2021
Trailway News: March-ing On
Happy March! It seems like each week we receive news giving a bit more hope that life could soon to return to “normal” in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, we also remind hikers not to drop their guard, particularly as traffic increases on the Appalachian Trail.
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February 26, 2021
Trailway News: Winter Prep is the Right Step
We at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (and thousands of hikers) are looking forward to the beauty and adventure of a springtime walk on the Appalachian Trail. However, with three more weeks of winter ahead of us, make sure to take extra precautions and be prepared for any upcoming hikes. Multiple incidents on the A.T. last weekend required the assistance of search and rescue (SAR) teams. We sincerely thank all of the SAR teams and hope for the quick recovery of the injured hikers.
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February 19, 2021
Trailway News: How Many Weeks Until Spring?
With a massive winter storm, an emergency closure of a section of the Appalachian Trail in Virginia (more on that below), and the ongoing pandemic, 2021 has made at least one thing very clear: it’s important to be prepared for anything. As you plan your upcoming hikes on the A.T., be sure to check our Trail Updates page and our COVID-19 info page for the latest updates on Trail conditions, closures, health and safety guidance, and other essential information for a prepared and enjoyable hike.
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February 12, 2021
Trailway News: Looking Forward By Looking Back
In the Winter 2021 issue of A.T. Journeys, our membership magazine, we focus on the theme of acknowledgements — the importance of examining our entire history, including the time preceding the Appalachian Trail. Over the next several weeks, we will share select articles from this issue due to their important discussions on justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, both in relation to our work and the greater Appalachian Trail community. We hope you will join us on this journey.
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February 6, 2021
Winter Trails (Still) Ahead
Earlier this week, everyone’s favorite groundhog Punxsutawney Phil declared that six more weeks of winter are ahead of us. Ignoring the accuracy of Phil’s predictions throughout the years, it’s a good reminder for Appalachian Trail hikers to plan and prepare for all conditions, especially during these unprecedented times.
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January 29, 2021
Trailway News: The Dynamic Forces of Nature
One of our key themes for 2021 is “looking forward by looking back.” This means looking back to the beginnings of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) to examine not only the goals we have accomplished so far, but the directions we must take to truly succeed in our mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). We look forward to sharing this journey with you!
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January 22, 2021
Trailway News: Strong Steps Into 2021
It’s a new year, and while wintry days are still ahead of us, things are already picking up on the Appalachian Trail. With lots of news to share this year, we’ve updated our newsletter format to highlight many stories at once and minimize the number of emails you receive!
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