The Smoky Mountain Hiking Blog: Friends Across the Mountains Telethon Has Been Cancelled

Late last week I received a notice in my email stating that Friends of the Smokies has made the decision to cancel the annual Friends Across the Mountains Telethon this year. Here's their message

Dear Friend,

As we face the stress of these difficult times, we have been thinking about our supporters. People like you help us sustain our mission to preserve, protect and provide for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so everyone can enjoy it today and for generations to come.

Sadly, due to the pandemic, we had to cancel our Friends Across the Mountains Telethon but thankfully, our partners at WBIR & WLOS are creating a televised Donor Drive that will be taking place later this year. We want to share the ongoing needs of the park with you and celebrate your commitment to the Smokies. If you live in East Tennessee or Western North Carolina, you can tune in live for a unique tribute to the park and see how Friends like you are making a difference. We’ll also share these stories online for everyone to enjoy after the broadcast. Please visit FriendsAcrossTheMountains.org for more information as dates are announced.

Friends of the Smokies needs to raise $75,000 for a new fully equipped search and rescue vehicle as well as additional funds to support other critical park needs.

Friends of the Smokies supports the park in ensuring guests have a safe and memorable visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park as it reopens to its full capacity.

In order to meet the financial needs of the park we are asking for your support. If you are able, please consider making a donation today, so we can assist Great Smoky Mountains National Park in welcoming back millions of visitors safely this season and for years to come. Together we are making a difference.