Trailway News: Find the ATC in All Your Feeds
Barren Mountain in the 100 Mile Wilderness. Photo by Eddie “EdBeard” O’Leary
It’s still cold out on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), but our new TikTok is a great way to warm up your scrolling thumb! Keep reading to learn more about our new TikTok, how we’re celebrating the start of Black History Month, and more.
The ATC is Now On TikTok
Follow us @appalachiantrail for short videos that showcase the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine and the work of the ATC as we carry out our mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the Trail.
Photo by Elizabeth Wisecarver of Derick Lugo, author of The Unlikely Thru Hiker
February is Black History Month
Black History Month is a time to honor the triumphs and struggles of Black Americans and reflect on the racial history of the A.T. and ATC. Like many other outdoor spaces, the A.T. has a complicated and often segregated history. In our push toward a more inclusive Trail, we continue to learn and share the histories at the intersections of race and the A.T.
2023 A.T. Hangtags Are Here!
Hiker hangtags are designed for aspiring thru-hikers and section hikers working on covering the entire A.T. Register your hike on ATCamp.org and participate in a Start Smart/Leave No Trace presentation at one of the following locations to receive a hangtag:
- Amicalola Falls State Park
- Damascus Trail Center
- ATC Headquarters & Visitor Center
- A.T. Visitor Center, Monson, ME (available in June, 2023)
Photo by Joana Barraza
Your A.T. Questions Answered
How long is the A.T. exactly? What does the ATC do? Where do I park for my hike? You’ve got A.T. questions, and we’ve got answers. Head over to our new FAQ page to see the most common questions about the Trail and about the ATC.
Trail Updates
A highway improvement project near Robbinsville, NC will affect the A.T. crossing at U.S. Highway 143/Stecoah Gap (NOBO mile 150.5). Passage across US Highway 143 will be possible, but Trail users may be delayed while waiting for vehicles to pass and for permission from road flaggers to safely proceed. Part of the project includes building a land bridge over the highway to provide safer passage for wildlife and hikers alike.
Register your upcoming hikes on ATCamp.org. Whether you’re setting out to hike the whole A.T. or planning some overnight trips this year, ATCamp.org is a great resource to register your hike and get Trail updates and information.
In Other News…
Walking off grief on the Appalachian Trail – One thru-hiker shares their experience processing the loss of their best friend during their NOBO hike.
Remember LNT principle #3 when going #2 – Backpacker Magazine shares a reminder about the importance of properly handling your waste when you’re out on the Trail.
Rain doesn’t have to be a pain – As the days get longer, late winter and spring rain showers will be all but unavoidable on the Trail. Read up on some of The Trek’s tips on dealing with rain.
Community Spotlight
Want to be featured in our community spotlight? Follow us on Instagram at @appalachiantrail and use #atcspotlight in your post!
Happy Trails!
Thank you for your continued support and the love you express for the Trail!