GATC’s Trail Ambassador Program
What is a Trail Ambassador?
The growing popularity of the Appalachian Trail over the last few decades has increased impact on the more than 78 miles of the Appalachian Trail from Springer Mountain to North Carolina. All hikers, from experienced thru-hikers to first-time day hikers, are welcome and encouraged to enjoy the trails and the beauty of the forests in North Georgia. Recognizing the need to offer education and assistance to help reduce impact and improve the hiker experience, the Trail Ambassador Program was created.
Trail Ambassadors serve as a resource for the hikers and a resource for the trail, assisting and informing hikers in an effort to help them have the best possible outdoor experience with the least possible impact on the resources.
Leave No Trace
A Trail Ambassador’s primary role is to educate hikers about Leave No Trace principles, which are essential to protecting the trail and the natural environment of the trail corridor. GATC offers many opportunities for Trail Ambassadors and other club members to get training in Leave No Trace principles and the best methods to have productive discussions with hikers on the trail or at trailheads.
Trail Ambassadors stay informed about the trail and local communities and monitor current conditions so they can serve as a resource to hikers on the trail. They are encouraged to pursue Wilderness First Aid certification and to render first aid to hikers when needed.
Trail Ambassadors interact with hikers through conversations on day hike patrols or longer backpacking trips between Amicalola Falls State Park and Bly Gap, where the A.T. enters North Carolina. They can also be found at popular trailheads throughout the year, offering day hikers advice and assistance. Every spring, as thru hiker season begins, Trail Ambassadors staff Basecamp at Amicalola Falls State Park, talking to hikers about Leave No Trace best practices and distributing ATC hang tags.
If you are hiking on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia and see one of our volunteer GATC Trail Ambassadors, stop and say hello. They are there to help make your hiking experience the best it can be.
Protect the Trail
Become an Ambassador
Start protecting the trail and its visitors today. If this sounds like a program you are interested in contact us.
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