A.T. Gateways
February 27 – March 1, 2026
Join Us Starting February 27th
at Amicalola Falls State Park
A.T. Gateways is a celebration of the Appalachian Trail, bringing together people who love the trail and the trail community. Engaging speakers, exciting vendors and a chance to socialize with other hikers make this an amazing event. On Sunday, the trail community can give back by joining the GATC and the Friends of Amicalola State Park for a trail maintenance project.
Join us for expert-led programs, hands-on demonstrations, fireside chats, and informal conversations covering everything from backpacking basics and trail readiness to Appalachian Trail history, stewardship, and the thru-hiker experience. Whether you are preparing for your first hike, planning a thru-hike, or simply curious about the Trail, A.T. Gateways offers something for every level of interest.
Below you’ll find a Quick Look Overview of the 2026 program, along with links to a printable PDF and the full detailed schedule to help you plan your weekend.
Quick Look Overview
A high-level overview to help you plan your weekend. See the full schedule for details.
Friday, Feb. 27 — 5:30–6:30 p.m. (All About George Masa)
Saturday, Feb. 28
- 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. — A.T. Base Camp (Visitor Center)
- 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. — Vendors (Lodge)
- 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. — Speakers & programs (see full schedule below)
- Fireside Chats (Lodge) — 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, Mar. 1 — 8:30 a.m.–Noon (Trail Maintenance Work Trip) Join GATC and the Friends of Amicalola State Park on a trail maintenance project within the park.
Vendors
The vendor area at AT Gateways provides a wonderful opportunity to explore both large and cottage gear companies, trail organizations, authors and other creators making products for the outdoor community.
This Year’s Vendors Include:
ALTRA, Appalachian Long Distance Hikers Association, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Benton MacKaye Trail Association, Carpenter Woodworks, Clayton Appalachian Trail Committee, Etowah Gear, Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, Gorgeous Stays Glamping, JB Handmade, Jolly Gear, Kindred, Len Foote Hike Inn, Linda Butcher, Marion Outdoors, Miss Janet, My Dottie Foods, Outdoor 76, Quarter Way Inn, Stanimals Around the Bend, The Trail Head Lodge, Trail Dames, Tye Crossing and Zpacks.
Reserve your lodging now!
Due to continued development in the lower field at Amicalola Falls State Park, Tent City camping has been discontinued. The upper campground will have a large campfire ring for shared camaraderie in the evenings.
Stay at the Lodge, share a cabin with friends, or get a campsite at Amicalola Falls State Park. Let them know you are coming for AT Gateways when you make your reservation.
If you prefer to stay in town nearby, Dahlonega, Ellijay and Dawsonville have many hotel options.