When will it end?

[HankIV]

Is this it? Are we all doomed?

Of course, cheer up!

[Mother Natures Son]

You don't seem to understand. The AT is changing. I got in the mail, yesterday points that out. An AT Christmas tree ornament was not from the a tree in the East. It was an Aspen tree. (CO) WOW

[TwoSpirits]

Well I guess I can see that as somewhat disappointing...but hardly a harbinger of doom. Since I'm not sure exactly how this ornament is crafted or what it looks like, or where in PA you live, this idea may be a bit of a stretch --- but how about taking a daytrip to an AT trailhead and finding something in the forest that you can craft into a personalized AT ornament made by you? (And no I'm not talking about cutting a tree or defacing or defiling the trail.)

As for the discussion about trail organizations "aging out", I agree that is worrisome. Whenever I've come across trail crews working on their various and never-ending projects, I am A), awestruck & speechless at the degree of difficulty and the incredible effort & organization involved; and B), very very grateful to those who step up and volunteer their time and skills. I myself live too far away from the AT, but there are trail groups locally that keep the dream alive in other areas of the country, and the enthusiasm and sense of comradeship is encouraging for the future. If local trail clubs can stay alive, I have confidence in those that support the AT.

[garlic08]

...As for the discussion about trail organizations "aging out", I agree that is worrisome. Whenever I've come across trail crews working on their various and never-ending projects, I am A), awestruck & speechless at the degree of difficulty and the incredible effort & organization involved; and B), very very grateful to those who step up and volunteer their time and skills. I myself live too far away from the AT, but there are trail groups locally that keep the dream alive in other areas of the country, and the enthusiasm and sense of comradeship is encouraging for the future. If local trail clubs can stay alive, I have confidence in those that support the AT.

Well said!

[HankIV]

Furthering the aging out issue, I’d guess older volunteers have always been the majority. Early in retirement, when one is reasonably fit, have time to commit.

[LIhikers]

My wife and I were A.T. boundary monitors here in NY for a out 15 years. When we gave it up we were quickly replaced by a younger man who took over our section. That should give is some hope

[Night Train]

No need to fret my friend, your passion and concern is admirable. Maybe you could start a grass roots recruiting drive or develop an outreach program in your locale, that is certainly a step in the right direction.