Trailway News: Hikes are Like a Box of Chocolates
Valentine’s Day has come and gone, but our love for the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and its community of doers and dreamers is alive every day of the year! Explore some of the latest news from the Trail, including our work with Members of Congress, a piece of African American history directly on the A.T., and ways for you to get involved in a conservation-focused career.

ATC President & CEO Sandi Marra meets with U.S. Senator Tim Kaine during Hike the Hill
ATC Promotes Volunteer Support, Landscape Conservation During Annual Hike the Hill Event
This week, the ATC participated in both the 26th Hike the Hill™ and the 2nd National Park Foundation Hill Day, working with Members of Congress from both parties to better protect the Appalachian Trail. The support we receive from federal partners helps us manage the day-to-day needs of the Trail, conserve the surrounding landscape, and empower local communities.
A short distance away from the town of Buena Vista in central Virginia, where the A.T. passes through a fairly narrow valley, the land around Brown Mountain Creek was once home to a vibrant community of formerly enslaved people. Learn more about Brown Mountain Creek and see our hike itinerary to help you plan your own hike through history.
Rails to the Trail: Expanding Access to Outdoor Recreation
Creating better access to outdoor spaces like the A.T. is essential for building the next generation of A.T. visitors, stewards, and advocates. ATC’s Alivia Acosta explains how a train ride from New York City to the Trail led to a transformative experience for a group of students.
Join an Amazing Team Dedicated to A.T. Conservation
Thinking about starting (or continuing) a career in environmental conservation? Check out our article at The Trek highlighting four seasonal positions that will allow you to give back to the Trail, spend time outdoors, and — get this — get paid for it, too.
Looking for other opportunities? Check out appalachiantrail.org/careers to see all of our open positions.
Don’t Forget: Submit Your Awe-Inspiring Photos of the A.T. in Georgia by February 26
We want to highlight the unique character and beauty of the A.T. as it passes through the Peach State — and we need your help to do it! Share your photos by February 26 to potentially have your photos featured on all our platforms. One photographer will also be randomly selected to receive an A.T. T-shirt and other assorted prizes!
Trail Updates

The ATC Visitor Centers in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and Damascus, Virginia, will be open on Presidents Day, February 20. Our other offices will be closed in observance of the holiday.
In Other News…
Konnarock wants YOU! – Don’t forget to check out the opportunity to join one of the ATC’s premier Trail Maintaining Crews in 2023! Multiple sessions are available from May to August, but positions are filling up fast…
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 the love and support you express for the Trail!