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).
The past year required significant sacrifices both within and outside the Trail community of volunteers, supporters, and hikers. Some delayed lifelong plans and aspirations — including A.T. thru-hike attempts — to better ensure they were at a lower risk of spreading COVID-19. We thank everyone who took, and continues to take, steps to help combat this pandemic.
Lead image courtesy of Andrew Courtright
Featured Article
Ridgerunning: A Reflection
After years of speeding down trails, Lily Gelfars headed to Georgia to begin her position as an A.T. ridgerunner. Her role as an on-the-ground backcountry educator and steward shifted her perspective not only on the impact we have on public lands, but how slowing down to take in the sights, sounds, and people of the Trail can lead to a new level of appreciation for the outdoors.
This article is brought to you in partnership with Appalachian Gear Company.
Image courtesy of the Open Space Institute
Landscape Conservation Success
Open Space Institute Conserves A.T. Adjacent Lands
The Open Space Institute (OSI), a member of the A.T. Landscape Partnership, recently announced the acquisition of 32 acres of land adjacent to the Trail in Putnam County, New York. The “Canopus Hollow” property acquisition will further the ecological and recreational connectivity of the eastern Hudson Highlands, protecting the area’s natural resources for wildlife habitat and providing additional opportunities for outdoor recreation. Our thanks go to OSI for their commitment to protecting the Trail and its surrounding lands!
Volunteer Spotlight
James Newman
Our Volunteer Spotlight for May is James Newman, who was also recognized by his peers in the Central and Southwest Virginia region (VARO) of the A.T. as their 2020 Volunteer of the Year! James has been a member of the Tidewater Appalachian Trail Club (TATC) since 1984, where he has taken a leading role in everything from Trail maintenance to volunteer recruitment. Thank you, James!
Don’t Forget…
A.T. Volunteer Brand Concept Challenge
Only a couple of weeks are left to submit your ideas for the A.T. Volunteer Brand Concept Challenge! Share your original designs of what being an A.T. volunteer means to you by May 31, 2021. Five submissions will be selected to receive a certificate of achievement and a stuffed daypack.
Nominations Open for ATC Board of Directors
Are you, or someone you know, interested in serving on the ATC Board of Directors? Nominations are being accepted until June 11, 2021, to fill multiple board positions. For more information and to submit your nomination today, click below or visit appalachiantrail.org/board2021.
Join the ATC Team
Join our mission to manage, protect, and advocate for the Trail! We are currently accepting applications for several job openings, including for Director of Visitor Services.
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.