November 18, 2022
Trailway News: Gobble Gobble
The Thanksgiving holiday always inspires us at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to pause and express gratitude for everything our members and supporters help us achieve throughout the year. We’re so grateful for all that you do to protect and celebrate the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)!
Over Thanksgiving week, there will be a few holiday-related changes to ATC operations. All ATC offices and visitor centers will be closed on Nov. 23-25. Check out the Trail Updates below for more detailed visitor center hours.
In addition, we will be taking a break from Trailway News next week — we’ll be back in your inbox on Friday, Dec. 2.
From all of us at the ATC, we hope you have a happy Thanksgiving!
Photo by Josh Tullock
Conservation Experts Underline the Importance of the A.T. Landscape
The Appalachian Trail Climate Advisory Group (CAG) has produced a first-of-its-kind report highlighting the Appalachian landscape’s importance in mitigating the effects of climate change. The CAG is made up of members of leading conservation organizations and academic institutions in the United States, as well as the ATC.
Last Call for 2023 Calendars
Due to popular demand, we’ve extended the deadline for reserving 2023 calendars. Make a generous donation of $75 or more by midnight tonight to receive this limited edition calendar and enjoy views from the A.T. all year long.
The A.T. Looks Good on You
Looking for a new shirt to showcase your love of the Trail? Check out the newest shirt in the Ultimate A.T. Store® designed by our partners at Wild Tribute!
This hand-drawn design captures the beauty and character of multiple iconic A.T. locations. Available in both short-sleeve and long-sleeve styles, you’ll be ready to show off the A.T. all year round.
Register Your Hike on ATCamp.org
Are you planning a thru-hike, section hike, or group camping trip on the A.T. in 2023? Stay informed of essential Trail updates and conditions, prevent crowding at campsites and trailheads, and minimize impacts on the Trail by registering your hike at ATCamp.org.
#OptOutside with the ATC
Each year, we join our partners at REI Co-op in closing our doors on the day after Thanksgiving so that staff can #OptOutside and spend time with loved ones. Give thanks for the great outdoors by paying a visit to your favorite park or section of the A.T. If you share your A.T. adventures on Instagram, make sure to tag us — @appalachiantrail!
Trail Updates
Don’t forget: all ATC offices and visitor centers will be closed Wed., Nov. 23, through Fri., Nov. 25. Special operating hours for our visitor centers are below:
The Damascus Trail Center will observe the following hours during Thanksgiving week:
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 19-21
Normal operating hours resume on Saturday, Nov. 26
Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 29 for #GivingTuesday
The Harpers Ferry Visitor Center will observe the following hours:
9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 19-21
Noon to 4 p.m. on Nov. 22
Normal operating hours resume on Saturday, Nov. 26
In Other News…
High Elevation Trail Tending – Ryan Smith of the Randolph Mountain Club writes for Mt Washington Valley Vibe magazine about rare ecosystems and technical trail work on the A.T. in northern New Hampshire.
New A.T. Documentary is a Moving Portrait of Trail Life with an Eating Disorder – Watch the new documentary, “Food in Your Belly,” for an inspiring story about finding healing on the Trail.
Iconic Locations: Monson, Maine – The Green Tunnel podcast digs into the fascinating history of this iconic trail town.
How Trail Designers Build Good Hikes – Vox examines the subtle art of trail design in this recent video.
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!