In Response to the Death of an A.T. Hiker on the Palisades Interstate Parkway in New York

Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Statement
11/18/2021

In Response to the Death of a Hiker on the Palisades Interstate Parkway in New York

Statement from Sandra Marra, President & CEO of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy

“On November 14, 2021, Galina Surman, 66, was struck by a car while following the combined Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and Ramapo-Dunderberg Trail crossing over the Palisades Interstate Parkway in New York. We are deeply saddened by this accident. Our thoughts go out to all who knew and loved Ms. Surman. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) takes safety extremely seriously, helping visitors understand how best to have a safe experience while on the Trail even though there are assumed risks in all outdoor recreation experiences. The ATC is coordinating with the land management partners and local club to gain further information and help increase hiker safety at this section and other road crossings along the A.T.”

About the Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The ATC was founded in 1925 by volunteers and federal officials working to build a continuous footpath along the Appalachian Mountains. A unit of the National Park System, the A.T. ranges from Maine to Georgia and is 2,193.1 miles in length. It is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world. The mission of the ATC is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. For more information, please visit www.appalachiantrail.org.

Media Contact: Jordan Bowman
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Tel: 304.885.0794
Email: jbowman@appalachiantrail.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ATHike
Web: www.appalachiantrail.org