January 27, 2023
Trailway News: Take the A.T. Hiker Pledge
The Snow-Covered Roan Highlands. Photo by Javan Lapp
This week in Trailway News, get inspired by stories of partnerships and projects that help the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and the people and animals who follow the white blazes.
You can also take the first step of your 2023 hikes before you even get to the Trail by taking the A.T. hiker pledge! Visit appalachiantrail.org/pledge or click the link below to learn more and pledge to help protect the A.T. experience.
Inspiring a New Generation of Trail Maintainers
Along the wind-swept ridgeline overlooking Palmerton, Pennsylvania, a group of six people from across the United States came together to build a new section of the A.T. Read more about the project to relocate a section of Trail near Palmerton and the dedicated crew of youth volunteers who made it possible.
New Name, Same Celebration of Flip-Flop Hikes and Hikers
The Flip-Flop Festival has a new name: the Flip-Flop Kickoff! This name more accurately features the event’s purpose of promoting flip-flop thru-hikes and celebrating those undertaking them. Beginning on April 22, attendees can still expect expert-led hiking workshops and support for hikers starting their adventures in Harpers Ferry.
The ATC Teams Up with Safe Passage to Protect Wildlife
In 2019, a two-year research project identified mortality hotspots and solutions to wildlife deaths along a 28-mile stretch of Interstate 40 in Tennessee and North Carolina. Along this busy stretch of interstate, the A.T. provides an opportunity for a corridor where wildlife can roam and avoid the threat of vehicle strikes. Learn more about how the ATC is expanding its partnership with the Safe Passage collaborative to improve landscape connectivity and help wildlife thrive.
Get Volunteer Opportunities Straight to Your Inbox
Interested in volunteering on the Trail? Take the first step by signing up to receive emails with volunteer opportunities! If you are starting out, there are experts who will make sure you have the tools and information you need to have an amazing volunteer experience. Training and resources are provided, and a community of people exists to support you throughout your time as a volunteer.
Trail Updates
A section of Blue Ridge Parkway remains closed due to a major landslide. Approximately 20 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway north of Roanoke from US Route 460 to VA 43 are still blocked by boulders and other debris. The A.T. is inaccessible between Salt Pond Road and Bearwallow Gap/VA 43 (NOBO miles 738.1 to 751.9)
Winter weather sets in on the A.T. The days may be getting longer, but snow, ice, and low temperatures will be common features along the Trail for months to come. Learn how to prepare for the cold and keep yourself safe on winter hikes.
Photo by Javan Lapp
Two additional Ridgerunner positions have opened. If you’re interested in one of the most adventurous and important A.T. jobs out there, consider applying for a 2023 Ridgerunner position. The ATC is currently seeking a Cumberland Valley Ridgerunner and a Tye River Ridgerunner.
In Other News…
When the land is also homelands – In the latest episode of The Green Tunnel podcast, guest host and producer, Hayley Madl, shares indigenous history of the A.T. and stories about some of the Native people who still live along the Trail and care for it today.
Foster connection and conservation – The National Park Service and Recreate Responsibly are teaming up to host a webinar mini-series about how people can take action every day to help parks, trails, and conservation efforts. Join us on January 30 at 2 p.m. EST to hear from the expert panel.
If you’re feeling indoorsy – Click over to A Trail Tale and experience a hike along the A.T. without leaving the comfort of your web browser.
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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Official Blog
A New Path for the A.T. in Palmerton
As life returns to the hills above Palmerton, Pennsylvania, the ATC is working to enhance the A.T. experience for future Trail users.
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About Volunteering
Learn more about volunteering on the Appalachian Trail and begin a volunteer journey that matches your skills, interest, and expectations.
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Become a Member
Membership benefits include an oversized Appalachian Trail strip map, a subscription to our membership magazine A.T. Journeys, discounts at the Ultimate A.T. Store®, special volunteer opportunities and invitations to exclusive events.