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.

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.

1 / total The trail has a seemingly endless number of hiking options, all with beautiful views. Photo by Kyle Repka

2 / total The trail restoration crew smiles after a day of hiking the Appalachian Trail. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

3 / total The sun slips behind silhouettes of the Appalachian Mountains. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

4 / total Crew leader Skip Sheldon teaches the group how to control water drainage, install steps and remove fallen trees. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

5 / total Max Patch is a landmark mountaintop on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It’s known for its scenic 360-degree views. Photo by Kyle Repka

6 / total Wildflowers cover Max Patch, a great spot to catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset with fellow hikers. Photo by Kyle Repka

7 / total With breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, photographers are always ready to capture the views atop Max Patch. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

8 / total Hiker Matt, also known on the trail as Ulysses, stops to enjoy the beautiful view from Max Patch. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

9 / total Mountains disappear into darkness after a beautiful, hazy sunset seen from Max Patch. Photo by Emanuel Vinkler

Help Preserve a Trail

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

Preserving the Appalachian Trail