Preserving the Appalachian Trail

Preserving the Appalachian Trail

After gathering in Asheville, North Carolina, a group of friends heads into the forest to help restore part of the 2,200-mile-long Appalachian Trail. Crew leader Skip Sheldon, a longtime trail veteran, mentors them on how to maintain one of America’s natural treasures. Afterward, the group enjoys a spectacular sunset and reflects upon their community service.

Crew leader Skip Sheldon speaks with the trail restoration crew

Crew leader Skip Sheldon speaks with the trail restoration crew

Appalachian Trail Guides

Trail veterans share their experiences.

Best Section Hikes

Find out which part of the Appalachian Trail is calling your name.

I Am Ulysses

Hikers often take on trail personas and change their names.

Trail Maintenance

See photos from the group's restoration work on the Appalachian Trail.

Help Preserve a Trail

Find out when and where you can help rebuild America’s trails.

Read more

United States trail restoration map
The sun slips behind silhouettes of the Appalachian Mountains.