Join the GATC
Participating in the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club (GATC) allows you to combine passion, recreation, and stewardship.
Membership is open to everyone who shares the Club's commitment to the Appalachian Trail and is interested in the club's activities.
We desire to build an active membership, and so we ask that Prospective Members participate in club activities prior to becoming a Member.
Becoming A Member
There are three types of membership:
- Individual Membership for those 18 years of age or older
- Joint Membership for those 18 years of age or older (two members at the same household address)
- Junior Membership for those 14-17 years of age
To become a Member of the GATC you must first participate in the Club's activities as a Prospective Member. To qualify for membership, you must participate in three GATC-sponsored activities within a twelve month period including:
- Prospective member orientation meeting
- Trail maintenance trip
- Club activity of your choice, such as a hike
The activities may be completed in any order. While an orientation is a great way to begin, it is not necessary to attend the orientation prior to participating in other activities.
To become a Prospective Member, please complete the
ONLINE Prospective Member Application
(If you are not comfortable applying online, complete and mail this Prospective Member Application form.)
Once membership requirements have been met, a Prospective Member will need to login and submit the three required activities. After approval the Prospective Member may then apply as Member.
To download a Prospective Member Information Packet, click here.
For additional information or questions, contact the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. (The membership committee does its best to respond quickly, but please plan for a response time of 3-5 days and plan accordingly for upcoming activities and orientations.)
Prospective member orientation meetings will be held on the following dates. Please contact the Membership Director for information on locations and times.
2018 GATC Orientation Meetings
- Monday, November 19 7:00pm Atlanta area
2019 GATC Orientation Meetings
Sunday, January 20 Afternoon Downtown Atlanta area
Saturday, March 30 Morning Near Blairsville
Saturday, June 1 Afternoon Vogel State Park
Sunday, August 18 Afternoon Cumming area
Saturday, October 5 Morning Dahlonega
Monday, November 11 Evening Metro Atlanta area
Note: Dates, times and locations are subject to change. Also, an orientation meeting held in conjunction with another club activity on the same day only counts as one requirement toward membership completion.
Donate to the Appalachian Trail in Georgia
Joining the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club requires a commitment. If you don't feel you have what it takes to join right now, your tax-deductible donation toward our work will be gratefully accepted. Click here to make a donation.