6 Ways to Love the A.T. This Valentine’s Day - Appalachian Trail Conservancy

The Appalachian Trail is a love story written across thousands of miles and multiple generations by people who care for the A.T. This Valentine’s season, we’re celebrating the love for the Trail that unites us all, and inviting you to join the passionate community of A.T. volunteers, hikers, ATC members, and donors who help protect the Trail.

If the A.T. has ever given you peace, purpose, or just a really good view, this is your invitation to return the love. Here are six meaningful ways to help protect the Trail for generations to come.

1. Give Back as a Volunteer

Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Appalachian Trail. The A.T. is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, spanning over 2,190 miles. Keeping it well-maintained and accessible requires a dedicated network of volunteers. Whether you have a few hours or a full weekend to spare, there are plenty of ways to get involved—from trail maintenance and invasive species removal to outreach and education programs.

Volunteering is also a great way to connect with others who love the outdoors and experience the Trail in a whole new way. Find a volunteer opportunity near you.

2. Make It Official and Become a Member

One of the easiest and most meaningful ways to show your love for the Trail is by becoming a member of the ATC. Any gift of $50 or more will make you a member!

As a member, you’ll fund conservation efforts, trail maintenance, and advocacy initiatives. A membership also connects you with a passionate community of hikers, volunteers, and supporters who care deeply about the Trail.

Whether you’re a thru-hiker, a section hiker, or someone who simply values the natural beauty of the A.T., joining the ATC as a member helps sustain our work now and for years to come.

3. Love the Trail? Be an A.T. Advocate

Whether on the footpath or on Capitol Hill, obstacles arise every day that threaten the Trail. The ATC and the community of people who love the Trail can be powerful advocates to stand up for the Trail and its surrounding lands.

Our new advocacy tool makes it easy to share why the Appalachian Trail is so important to you; why its natural, scenic, cultural and historic qualities deserve strategic and thoughtful protection; and that you support legislation that benefits the conservation of our public lands.

View our legislative priorities and take action as an A.T. advocate.

4. Protect the A.T. with Leave No Trace

One of the most important ways you can show love for the A.T. is by being a responsible steward when you’re out on the Trail. Following Leave No Trace principles helps minimize human impact and keeps the Trail a transformative experience for future hikers.

Simple actions like packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife, and camping responsibly can make a huge difference.

5. Stay Connected with ATC Newsletters

We love to keep in touch! Staying informed about the latest updates, conservation efforts, and upcoming events is a simple yet effective way to support the ATC and our efforts to protect the Trail. By subscribing to ATC’s newsletters, you’ll receive important news about Trail conditions, information and guidance for experiencing the Trail, and inspiring stories.

Horizonline Pictures

6. Share the Love with a Donation

Much of the A.T. is completely free to access, but there are costs associated with managing and maintaining the footpath. If you’re an A.T. lover, now is the perfect time to give back.

Your gift supports our mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the Trail. From habitat restoration and land conservation to volunteer crews and visitor education, your generosity fuels the long-term resilience of the A.T. No donation is too small—every dollar helps protect the Trail for generations to come.

Give Today

Jerry Monkman

People Who Love the Trail Help Keep it Alive

Every donation, volunteer hour, advocacy action, and Leave No Trace choice helps keep the A.T. connected and protected for all. Whether you give, volunteer, speak up, hike responsibly, or stay connected through ATC updates, your support matters. When people show love for the Appalachian Trail, they help keep it alive.