November 11, 2022
Trailway News: Thank You, Veterans
This Veterans Day, we sincerely thank those who have served in the armed forces. For many veterans, the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) has become a destination to help “walk off the war,” in much the same way as World War II veteran Earl V. Shaffer when he completed the first known A.T. thru-hike in 1948.
We at the ATC are constantly moved by all of these stories and are humbled to know that the work of the ATC, our volunteers, and our partners helps gives something back to those who have already given so much for our country.
In our latest blog post, we speak with U.S. Marine Corps veteran Sean Gobin, whose 2012 A.T. thru-hike inspired him to establish Warrior Expeditions. Through his organization, Sean has helped hundreds of veterans experience the A.T. and other trails, using the benefits of nature to decompress.
Photo by Adam Webster, WVLT
The ATC Helps Create First-Ever Community Forest in West Virginia
The ATC and the West Virginia Land Trust are proud to announce the permanent protection of the Little Bluestone Community Forest. Located in Summers County, West Virginia, this landscape will protect 370 acres of land and provide numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation and sustained economic development throughout the region.
Photo by Nicholas Fox
Save the Date for #GivingTuesday
Lend the A.T. a hand (or handstand) this #GivingTuesday, taking place on November 29, 2022. Your support helps ensure the Trail will continue to inspire future generations, preserve critically important lands and habitats, and provide millions each year with an outdoor experience unlike any other.
Trail Updates
After many years of service, Rock Gap Shelter in North Carolina is being rebuilt. The old shelter has been taken down, and the rebuild project is expected to last 4 to 6 weeks. The onsite privy will remain open and camping near the shelter will still be available.
The ATC is closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Nicole, which is likely to affect much of the southern A.T. corridor from Georgia to Virginia into the weekend. Hikers are strongly encouraged to postpone any planned trips in this region until this storm passes.
In Other News…
Capturing the Sounds of the Trail – Listen to the A.T. with the Atlas Obscura Podcast, which showcases the final days of a listener’s thru-hike.
Unknown Neighbors on the Trail – The Keene Sentinel interviews “Popeye,” “Papa Bear” and “Dreamer,” three A.T. thru-hikers who met on the Trail this year — only to realize they lived within 15 miles of each other back home.
The Hike of the Irish – Afar examines the Ulster–Ireland leg of the International Appalachian Trail. This hike won’t count toward becoming an A.T. 2,000-miler, but the chances of seeing a leprechaun are higher.
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!