Rocky Top Trail Crew is in Search of Volunteer Trail Maintainers in Smokies

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s (ATC) Rocky Top Trail Crew is looking for volunteers to help reconstruct a remote section of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park from September 30th to October 7th. The ATC will cover all work related expenses such as food, gear, and safety equipment.

The crew will spend 8 days living in the backcountry building steps, turnpike and trail structures to protect and harden the A.T. The work is of vital importance to protect one of the most damaged sections of the Trail. Paid crew leaders will work alongside volunteers and teach them the latest techniques in trail construction.

Partners from the Backcountry Horsemen of America will also provide assistance to the crew by packing up food and tools for a week of hard work.

The Rocky Top Crew is supported by the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club, the National Park Service, the ATC, Mountain Khakis and the North Carolina Recreation Trails Program grant. The 70 miles of the A.T. through Great Smoky Mountains National Park crosses the Trail's highest point and traverses the most diverse ecosystem and the largest roadless area along the Trail. Half of the A.T. in the Park is open to horse use, and the crew's current work involves reconstructing those sections where horses and hikers share the Trail.

For more information or to register, contact Andrew Downs at 828.254.3708 or click here.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com

1 comment

Joe Cleaning said...

Where do I sign up!!!!!