Free Appalachian Trail Hiker Ferry Launches in Unicoi County

ERWIN, Tenn. – Appalachian Trail hikers coming through and visiting the town of Erwin now have a safe way to cross the Nolichucky River this spring. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is providing a free daily ferry service to transport A.T. hikers across the Nolichucky River near the former site of the Chestoa Pike Bridge, which was destroyed during Hurricane Helene in September 2024.   

The river raft ferry, provided in partnership with Wahoo’s Adventure Nolichucky, will operate 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily through June 15. Made possible thanks to donations to the ATC’s Appalachian Trail Resiliency Fund, the hiker ferry will be the official route of the A.T. during its operation this spring.  

“The amazing outpouring of support for the A.T. following Hurricane Helene has fueled cleanup efforts that have reopened more than 400 miles of the trail quicker than we ever imagined,” said Franklin Tate, ATC Regional Director. “While there’s still much work to do to repair and restore Trail features and habitat and to fully reconnect the A.T., including rebuilding the Chestoa Pike Bridge, we are grateful to everyone who donated and made this service possible to help 2025 hikers safely hike through the A.T. Community™ of Erwin and Unicoi County.”  

The ferry is made possible in partnership with the Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club, Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping, Unicoi County and Erwin, Tenn. 

A rope cutting event was held on the banks of the Nolichucky River to launch the new A.T. hiker ferry service on March 17. Representatives from Unicoi County, the ATC, Uncle Johnny’s Hostel, Wahoo Adventure, and the Town of Erwin were in attendance. Photo by Valerie Bradley.

“The Appalachian Trail is a vital part of Erwin’s identity and economy, and we are proud to support efforts that enhance the experience for hikers passing through our community,” said Michael Baker, Town of Erwin Alderman. “This ferry service not only provides a safe and reliable crossing of the Nolichucky River but also reaffirms our town’s commitment to welcoming and assisting outdoor enthusiasts. We appreciate the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and all the partners involved in making this happen.”

“Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of economic growth in Unicoi County, and this new hiker ferry service represents a major step forward in strengthening our region’s connection to the Appalachian Trail,” said Austin Finch, Economic Development Director with Unicoi County Economic and Community Development. “By ensuring safe passage across the Nolichucky River, we are enhancing accessibility, boosting local tourism, and reinforcing Erwin’s reputation as a premier trail town. We’re excited to see the positive impact this initiative will have on both hikers and our local businesses.” 

Northbound A.T. hikers looking to use the ferry should go to Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping to reserve a seat. Dogs and children are allowed on the ferry with their owner or an adult. 

Terry Wise, owner of Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel remarked: “This is a win, win, win! A win for local economics because the Erwin/Unicoi rafting industry was decimated by Helene, and this throws them a lifeline. A win for hikers by providing a great experience on the A.T. and an adventure across the Nolichucky River. And a win for safety because it gives hikers a safe route that avoids the hazards of an extended road walk.”  

The 3.6-mile road walk detour that was blazed earlier in 2025 can be used when the ferry is not operating or as an alternate route if weather or other circumstances restrict service. For more information and resources to hike the Appalachian Trail in sections impacted by Hurricane Helene in 2025, visit appalachiantrail.org/helene. 

About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy 

Founded in 1925, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy works passionately to manage and protect the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. As the only non-profit devoted exclusively to the entirety of the Trail and its landscape, we endeavor to keep its vast natural and scenic beauty healthy, resilient, and connected, so that everyone can experience its transformative power for generations to come. Together with our supporters, partners, and thousands of volunteers, we keep the Trail alive. 

Media Contact:
Ann Simonelli, 304.885.0482, asimonelli@appalachiantrail.org