October 21, 2022
Trailway News: It’s Lonely at the Top (of Katahdin)
One of the most important annual milestones for Appalachian Trail (A.T.) hikers has arrived. Yesterday, October 20, Baxter State Park officially closed all Katahdin trails for the season. This includes the Hunt Trail, which the A.T. follows to its northern terminus on Baxter Peak. The trails on Katahdin typically reopen in mid-to-late May each year.
To all of the northbound A.T. thru-hikers who completed their journeys this year: congratulations! And to all of the southbounders, flip-floppers, and section hikers still working their way toward becoming 2,000-milers: good luck, stay safe and stay warm!
The Craighead House represents a history of conservation and enthusiasm for nature that aligns with the mission of the ATC. Photo: Jason Malmont, The Sentinel
ATC Mid-Atlantic Office Moves to Historic Craighead House in Pennsylvania
In September, ATC regional staff began moving into the historic Craighead House, located on the banks of the Yellow Breeches River in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. This new location provides expanded office space while remaining close to the Trail.
Vote Ending Soon: What Color Should the 2023 A.T. Hangtag Be?
Don’t forget to cast your vote every day for your favorite 2023 A.T. hangtag color until Monday, October 24!
The A.T. hangtag can be seen dangling from the backpacks of thousands of hikers as they attempt to tackle the entire Trail, whether in one continuous thru-hike or over a series of section hikes.
And, as a thank you for voting, we are also selecting ten random voters to receive a Hydro Flask Parks for All 12 oz Cooler Cup!
Volunteer Spotlight
An A.T.-sized “Thank You!” goes to our recent volunteer spotlight recipients:
Ashley Luke
Much like the Georgia mountain breezes, Ashley has been described by her GATC colleagues as “a breath of fresh air.” In just two years, she has made a deep impact on both the Trail itself and through multiple GATC roles.
Roger Hahn
Roger has volunteered at the ATC’s Harpers Ferry Visitor Center almost every weekend since 2015, and he always goes the extra mile to ensure visitors leave the Center much more prepared and informed than when they arrived.
In Other News…
Massachusetts’ Mightiest Mountain – Learn more about the most iconic peak on the A.T. in the Bay State, Mount Greylock, in the latest episode from our friends at The Green Tunnel Podcast.
Celebrate Spooky Season with a Trail-Themed Jack-O’-Lantern – Treat your Halloween visitors by using our A.T. Jack-O’-Lantern stencils to carve your pumpkin this year!
Reserve Your 2023 Appalachian Trail Calendar Today – Enjoy a daily reminder of the A.T. — make a donation of $75 or more by November 1 to receive this calendar in addition to ATC membership benefits.
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!