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.
Lead image courtesy of Jeffrey Stoner
It all began with a question: “What are you?”
When ATC Vice President of Advancement Shalin Desai undertook an A.T. thru-hike in 2015, he discovered the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains — but also discovered that the Trail experience often differs significantly depending on your identity. Reflecting on his hike, the events of the past year, and the history of the Trail itself, Shalin examines how acknowledging the full range of problems we are confronted with will help us create more robust and resilient solutions to today’s problems.
Updates to Hiker Registration
We have updated our ATCamp voluntary registration system, which will now allow overnight hikers and thru-hikers to register on dates/starting locations that are already at “maximum capacity.” This change was implemented to help hikers see a more accurate picture of how many people are committed to being on a certain section of the Trail on each date. We remind everyone that ATCamp is voluntary, so the number of registrants appearing on each date might differ from the number of people you find on the Trail.
We always strongly encourage hikers to select dates that fall underneath the maximum capacity red line on our charts (set at 38 campers per location per day — the number of campsites available). This will help minimize damage to the Trail and crowding at campsites and A.T. trailheads, which is especially important for the social distancing necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Your Ticket to Ed-Venture
For the past several months, our Ed-Venture series has introduced participants to the history, nature, and science surrounding us on the A.T. We have two last sessions scheduled for this season — spaces are limited, so register today to secure your spot!
February 17: Climate Change in the White Mountains
Delve into research from New England’s highest summits to understand how climate change is impacting everything from the fragile alpine flowers to the snowpack in the legendary Tuckerman Ravine.
March 3: Hang Out with Me! I’m a Fungi.
Learn more about fungi’s important role in the world, when you are most likely to see fungi (focusing on the Northeast regions of the A.T.), and how most fungi have a symbiotic relationship with other plants.
Can’t make it? Missed one of our previous sessions? You’re in luck — we have recorded all sessions in our Ed-Venture series for everyone to enjoy!
We’re Hiring!
The ATC is currently hiring for a wide range of positions, including full-time and seasonal work. Visit our careers page and help us fulfill our mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the A.T.
Community Spotlight
Want to be featured in our community spotlight? Follow us on Instagram at @appalachiantrail and use #atcspotlight in your post!
Happy Trails!
Please donate today to ensure the A.T. we all love benefits us today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.