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About Us
We oversee the protection and management of the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, the Appalachian Trail.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Established in 1925, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) leads the effort to protect, maintain and celebrate the A.T. We are part of a unique cooperative-management system, working with numbers of local, state and federal partners to ensure greater protections for the Trail. Our partners include the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, dozens of state agencies and 30 local Trail-maintaining clubs.
The ATC is largely funded by its more than 30,000 members and over 600,000 supporters located throughout all 50 states and in more than 15 countries. Their support ensures that the one-of-a-kind A.T. hiking experience is protected from development, increasing use of the outdoors and other dangers.
The mission of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail — commonly known as the Appalachian Trail or simply “the A.T.” — is the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, measuring roughly 2,190 miles in length. The Trail travels through fourteen states along the crests and valleys of the Appalachian Mountain Range, from its southern terminus at Springer Mountain, Georgia, to the northern terminus at Katahdin, Maine.
More than 3 million people visit the Trail every year and over 3,000 people attempt to “thru-hike” the entire footpath in a single year. People from across the globe are drawn to the A.T. for a variety of reasons, such as reconnecting with nature, escaping the stress of city life, meeting new people or deepening old friendships, or experiencing a simpler life.
Completed in 1937, the A.T. is a unit of the National Park System. It is managed under a unique partnership between the public and private sectors led by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
What We Do
Educate
We prepare and educate millions of visitors each year as they explore the natural and cultural wonders of the Trail. We promote outdoor ethics to minimize the impact visitors have on the environment. We engage our supporters on issues important for protecting the A.T. experience.
Protect
We work to ensure that the Trail is protected forever through public engagement, broader landscape protection, and best Trail management practices. We manage more than 250,000 acres that protects fresh drinking water, culturally and historically significant landscapes, threatened and endangered species, and recreation-driven economies.
Empower
We empower the next generation of A.T. stewards, engaging the youth and rallying local communities to help protect the Trail. Through our programs and partnerships, we support over 6,000+ volunteers that maintain and care for the A.T. and its surrounding lands.
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A Strong Future
Conservation
As stewards of the Appalachian Trail, our goal is to ensure it will be enjoyed for centuries to come.
Plan and Prepare
Hiker Resource Library
A collection of resources for hikers to stay safe, healthy, and responsible on the Appalachian Trail.
The A.T. Landscape Partnership
A Dynamic Approach to Landscape Conservation
The Appalachian Trail Landscape Partnership is a dedicated coalition of local, state and federal partners led by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the National Park Service.