Appalachian Trail News & Announcements

Trail Updates www.appalachiantrail.org/updates updated: 01/31/2012

The latest guides and maps can't always keep up with rapidly changing Trail conditions. Check this page regularly for information on current conditions, relocations, and other big changes along the Trail. More Trail conditions can be found on some local A.T. management partners' websites.

Be sure to review A.T. Shuttles, Public Transportation, and Vandalism Alerts for recent vandalism reports in the area you are planning to park your car. Vandalism reports are listed separately at the end of each state's section. We can never guarantee the safety of any location. Remote trailheads tend to have the greatest risk. To minimize risk, stow all valuables in your trunk or leave them at home.

If you notice a problem on the Trail that requires attention please let us know attrailconditions@appalachiantrail.org.
Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Lee

The Appalachian Trail in Vermont is now open, with some detours. Some side trails and roads remain closed. See the Vermont Section below for more details. (10/27/11)

Two hurricanes in early September caused significant damage in some areas, including flooding and washed-out bridges and boardwalks. The most significant impacts were reported in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Vermont (where some areas are still closed), and Maine. Low-lying areas were hit hardest, and road access has been affected in some areas. Some temporary re-routes may be required. Carrying a map and compass is strongly recommended. We have listed closures and cautions we are aware of below, but please check local land-managing agencies website, trail club websites, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Facebook page before contemplating a hike, or contact an ATC office at www.appalachiantrail.org/locations.

ATTN: THRU-HIKERS: Fording streams and rivers may be the most dangerous challenge hikers confront, especially following inclement weather. River crossings can be deceptively hazardous. Even a very shallow, swiftly flowing body of water can pack enough force to knock you off your feet. Use caution and common sense. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them. If a section of the Appalachian Trail is closed or presents a serious safety hazard, hikers may take an alternate route or skip those sections entirely and still be eligible to receive 2,000-miler status. Read our Safety Tips for Fording Streams and Rivers article for advice.

GEORGIA
The U.S. Forest Service advises backpackers to properly hang their food and scraps, and seriously consider the use of bear-proof food canisters. Bears in the area seem to have found ways to reach food hung by standard methods. For more information on hiking in bear country visit the black bears section of our website.

NORTH CAROLINA
No updates at this time.

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