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.
Photo by Andrew “Home Stretch” Courtright
11 Easy Leave No Trace Tips
Following Leave No Trace principles means more than just packing out your trash, but recreating responsibly is easier than you might think! By implementing these 11 easy tips, you’ll be on your way to reducing your impact on the Trail and helping protect the A.T. hiking experience — for you, visitors, and A.T. wildlife.
Celebrating George Masa’s Legacy
Earlier today, the ATC joined Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer and representatives from Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP), the Carolina Mountain Club, the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the George Masa Historical Marker Committee, the North Carolina Office of Archives and History, and other dignitaries to celebrate the placement of a marker honoring George Masa on Patton Avenue in downtown Asheville.
Known by many as the “Ansel Adams of the Smokies,” Masa’s photography of sweeping Appalachian landscapes was instrumental in the early stages of forming GSMNP. Masa also worked closely with ATC chairman Myron Avery to help chart the route of the A.T. in western North Carolina and collaborated with Avery to found the Carolina Appalachian Trail Club (which later merged with the Carolina Mountain Club).
The ATC works to honor the legacy of Masa and the many others who helped build and protect the Trail over time. Through our continued work (and your support), we will help ensure future visitors will be able to experience the same A.T. views that inspired Masa so many years ago. Special thanks to longtime ATC supporter William “Bill” Hart for his dedication to ensuring Masa received this special recognition.
Click here to learn more about Masa’s legacy in conservation and to view more of his photos.
In Other News…
Apply for the Emerging Leaders’ Summit – The ATC is hosting its Emerging Leaders’ Summit as part of the A.T. Vista event this August 5-7. Apply to be a part of a diverse cohort of leaders, ages 18-35, looking to expand skills and stewardship for the outdoors through connection, action, and expression. Selected participants will receive a scholarship covering lodging, meals, and registration costs.
2022 A.T. Hall of Fame Inductees Announced – The Appalachian Trail Museum recently announced the twelfth class of A.T. Hall of Fame honorees, which include:
- Jim & Molly Denton, who were primarily responsible for the longest contiguous reroute in the history of the Trail. Jim also served on the ATC Board of Directors from 1948 to 1961.
- JoAnn & Paul Dolan, who spearheaded the effort to form the 22,000-acre Sterling Forest State Park and preserved much of the A.T. Landscape. JoAnn also served on the ATC Board of Directors from 1985 to 1991.
- Tom Speaks, who served as Supervisor of both the Cherokee and the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and spearheaded A.T. acquisitions from Georgia to central Virginia., including Rocky Fork, Spy Rock, Max Patch and Roan Highlands.
- Laurie Potteiger, a thru-hiker and maintainer whose 33-year career at the ATC helped thousands of visitors become better prepared, more responsible hikers; helped popularize Leave No Trace principles and sustainable hiking practices, including flip-flop thru-hikes; and helped forward the mission of the ATC.
The Green Tunnel Podcast Completes Season One – The final episode of the season focuses on Eiler Larson, known by many along the A.T. (and beyond) as the “Apostle of Happiness.” Read our blog post to discover more about Eiler and his time on the A.T. The Green Tunnel Podcast is produced by our friends at R2 Studios™ at the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media at George Mason University.
Join Our Team – Explore seasonal, part-time, and full-time positions with the ATC on our Careers page.
Community Spotlight
Happy Trails!
Thank you for your continued support and the love you express for the Trail!