One of my earliest and most formative experiences outdoors was not a grand summit or a long-distance hike, but a weekly ritual of hiking in a local park with my dad and our dogs. Over time, I came to understand how meaningful that quiet, shared time was and the connection it created between us. It’s a tradition I’ve carried forward with my husband and children. Those experiences shaped my belief that access to the outdoors should not be a luxury, but something available to all, helping people feel a sense of belonging and a responsibility to care for something beyond themselves.

That sense of shared stewardship is very much on my mind as we begin a new year, and I start my time as President and CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. Just like preparing for a successful backpacking adventure, I’m taking time to learn from all the people who have spent years protecting, caring for, and hiking the trail so I can bring the right “gear” and knowledge to better plan for the ATC’s future.

My goal for 2026 is to travel to all 14 states that the A.T. touches, getting to know the ATC’s passionate staff and the dedicated Trail Maintaining Club members, connecting with partners and communities, and meeting ATC members, supporters, and of course the hikers. While I’m excited to experience more of this beloved national treasure, what I most look forward to is meeting the people who are so central to its wellbeing. I believe that listening to and learning from those who love the Trail, who have found personal meaning exploring, caring for, or volunteering on the A.T., and who are passionate about ensuring these transformational experiences persist for future generations will make me a better leader for ATC.

During my tenure with the National Park Service and working in the nonprofit conservation sector, I’ve seen again and again how essential collaboration is for the stewardship and vitality of our beloved public lands. A 2,197.9-mile treadway within 370,000 acres of protected land doesn’t exist without strategic cooperation and the steadfast work of a vast network of individuals, groups, agencies, conservationists, and residents.

What has always impressed me most about ATC is its role as the unifying entity that brings everyone together to steward this world famous recreational and ecological resource. One of my top priorities is to strengthen these existing partnerships and to build new ones to tackle both the known and unforeseen challenges ahead and to advance our vision of a protected, resilient, and connected Appalachian Trail.

While the National Parks have been called “America’s best idea,” I see the Appalachian Trail as one of our most American ideas. Its creation, management, protection, and the experience it offers millions of visitors exemplifies many core American values, including innovation, civic engagement, and individualism.

The adventure, beauty, healing, and connection found on the Trail speaks to our longing as humans to be part of something bigger than ourselves. We come to each trailhead with our own personal goals, dreams, and yearnings. At the start of 2026, I’m at my trailhead and eager to move down the path with a focus on stewardship, access, and the power of public lands to connect and inspire.

I’m humbled to serve in this role and will do so with a priority for collaborative leadership and transparent communication. The A.T. would not be the jewel it is today without all of the dedicated volunteers, communities, and partners who keep the Trail alive.

I’m eager to set out on this trek together, and I look forward to meeting many of you soon!

 

Cinda Waldbuesser
President & CEO