The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is searching for volunteers to help maintain sections along the fabled footpath. No previous trail experience is necessary — just a desire to work hard, live in the backcountry and have a great time among new friends. Food is provided during the volunteer trail work week. There are several different trail crews scattered along the Appalachian Trail from its Georgia beginning to its Maine ending. Volunteers arrive on the Wednesday afternoon before their work week for a dinner and mandatory orientation session and work a five-day week in the field, from Thursday through Monday.
For more adventurous volunteers, the Smokies Wilderness Elite Appalachian Trail Crew leads volunteers into the backcountry of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to work at the highest elevations. Volunteer opportunities are available now until Aug 18.
The all-volunteer trail crews are led by paid trail crew professionals who teach volunteers trail stewardship and leave no trace skills during the multi-day adventure. The Conservancy provides food, tools and the equipment necessary to get the job completed. www.appalachiantrail.org/crews.