Trailway News: Here’s to S’more Adventures in 2023
Photo by Patrick Hare
Happy New Year! We’re back with weekly editions of Trailway News to ring in 2023. To new readers, welcome! And to those who have been longtime readers and supporters of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), a huge thank you.
This week, we’ve got some exciting wrap-ups from 2022, big public land policy wins from our Advocacy team, and resources to help you on your new year hikes.
Photo by Carl Miller
Thank You for Your Support in 2022
Thanks to your generous year-end donations, we will be starting 2023 off strong in our mission to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). When you support the ATC, you support efforts to preserve the A.T. landscape, provide a world-class hiking experience, and promote a sense of belonging on the Trail. In 2022, because of your support, we were able to:
- Protect endangered forestland.
- Monitor imperiled wildlife.
- Evaluate scenic views for preservation.
- Expand skills training for volunteers.
- Open a new Trail Center for visitors of all experience levels.
Read more about each of these accomplishments in our full 2022 Year in Review — and from everyone at the ATC, thank you for your support!
Hats Off to 2022 Volunteers
In 2022, 4,728 volunteers contributed 170,904 hours to protect the A.T. To all who gave their time in 2022, a huge THANK YOU!
Is finding more volunteer opportunities one of your New Year’s resolutions? Check out upcoming volunteer opportunities at appalachiantrail.org/waystovolunteer.
Advocacy Update: 2023 Federal Spending Bill Scores Wins for the A.T.
The ATC and its partners in trail and environmental stewardship commend the passing of the 2023 federal spending bill, which includes multiple wins for public lands like the A.T. The allocated funds will benefit the protection and conservation of lands directly on the Trail, as well as provide much-needed financial support for the National Park Service (NPS).
Wishing a Happy Retirement to Superintendent Wendy Janssen
The ATC wishes a very happy retirement to Superintendent for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (ANST), Wendy Janssen!
As a unit of the National Park System, the A.T. has benefitted tremendously with Superintendent Janssen at the helm of the ANST. We wish her happy trails in retirement!
Trail Updates
Birch Spring Gap/Campsite 113 (NOBO mile 172.3) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been temporarily closed due to hazard trees in the area. Hikers should plan their itineraries accordingly to avoid camping at Birch Spring Gap.
The NPS 24-Hour Dispatch/Communications Center number — 866.677.6677 — is currently down. To reach the dispatch center in the meantime, call 301.714.2235. Visitors to the A.T. should always call 911 in the event of an emergency.
Plan ahead and prepare for your hike or camping trip with ATCamp.org! ATCamp is a voluntary registration system that helps hikers minimize damage to the Trail, avoid crowds, and stay informed of current conditions.
Join our team! The ATC is hiring for multiple full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles, including multiple positions on our 2023 Trail Maintaining Crews. Learn more and apply today at appalachiantrail.org/careers.
In Other News…
Being a Ridgerunner is rad, but don’t take our word for it – Former ridgerunner (and current Potomac Appalachian Trail Club President) Jim “Sisu” Fetig recently contributed an article on The Trek about what it’s like to have the best job in the world be an A.T. ridgerunner. Learn firsthand how the experience was challenging and deeply rewarding and maybe even get inspired to apply.
Orange Blaze uncovers the hidden Appalachian Trail – Earlier this week, the Orange Blaze podcast released an episode about the hidden A.T. with friend of the ATC and Green Tunnel podcast host, Mills Kelly. Listen to learn more about the origin story of Green Tunnel and how Mills and his team dig deep into archives and local Trail Maintaining Club chapters to share amazing stories about the A.T.
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!
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Plan and Prepare
Hiker Resource Library
A collection of resources for hikers to stay safe, healthy, and responsible on the Appalachian Trail.
From maintenance of the footpath and its facilities to greeting guests
Volunteer Opportunities
The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) would not exist without volunteers.
Plan and Prepare
Trail Updates
Know before you go — be aware of the latest Appalachian Trail conditions, weather advisories, and reroutes/closures.