Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Damascus Trail Days

This weekend marked the 24th annual Damascus Trail Days in Damascus, VA. Trail Days is a celebration of past, present, and future hikers that walked the Appalachian Trail, a 2175 mile trail from Georgia to Maine. The festivities began early last week, leading up to the main events during the weekend. There were workshops, vendors, live music, local artists, and plenty of excitement to go around. Hikers were able to take advantage of free gear repairs in the campground, check out the latest gear available from manufacturers, and learn about Leave No Trace techniques at our booth in Town Park. We were asked many important questions about proper human waste disposal in the backcountry, precautions to take in bear country, and how to travel in pristine areas. Education is vital to protecting all of the beautiful places we enjoy recreating, like the Appalachian Trail, which is bustling with hikers every summer.

We enjoyed sharing our stories from the road with representatives from many of the Center’s partners, including Enertia Trail Foods, Grand Trunk, Hennessey Hammocks, and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. This was a wonderful experience and opportunity to reach hundreds of hikers that are proud to call the AT their home during the spring/summer season. Happy and Safe Hiking to all the thru-hikers, section-hikers, and day hikers of the Appalachian Trail!

Happy Adventuring…Kate and Tracy

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