The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is on a mission to raise $50 million, the largest fundraising effort in the organization's history and part of its 100th anniversary celebrations.
Money raised via the Centennial Campaign would help protect the future of the popular and beloved Appalachian National Scenic Trail, the conservancy said in a news release.
“The 100th anniversary represents more than just a milestone in our history; it embodies our unwavering commitment to protecting and preserving the Appalachian Trail,” president and CEO Sandra Marra said.
More than $26 million has already been raised since 2024, with a focus on strategic investments in line with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's three core pillars: Protect, belong, and experience.
“Our goal is to ensure that the trail remains a place of inspiration and refuge for everyone,” said Greg Winchester, campaign co-chair. “This Centennial Campaign is our call to action: to build a stronger, more resilient Appalachian Trail for the next 100 years and the millions of lives it will touch.”
The Appalachian Trail spans nearly 2,200 miles across 14 states from Georgia to Maine. It's estimated that about 3 million people visit the trail each year, with about 3,000 attempting to hike the entire length. But the trail faces a range of environmental threats and challenges, and some sections were heavily damaged last year when Hurricane Helene came ashore in Florida and roared through the Southeast.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a nonprofit group dedicated to preserving the trail, and it's a key leader in rebuilding after Helene. The trail's management and maintenance fall under the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, prompting concern that staff cuts mandated by the Trump administration could slow those efforts.
The conservancy says the Centennial Campaign will support initiatives including:
- The Wild East Action Fund grant program for projects focused on conservation within the trail landscape.
- National Resource Stewardship, which supports the ecosystems that sustain the trail.
- Ridgerunners, on-trail educators who engage hikers and help with trail maintenance.
- Developing a network of sustainable overnight camping sites along the trail.
- Youth and young adult programs.
Visit appalachiantrail.org/campaign to learn more or make a tax-deductible donation.
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