Preserving the Appalachian Trail: Celebrating 100 Years of Conservation
For 100 years, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (AT) has provided hikers with breathtaking views, a deep connection to nature, and a pathway through some of America’s most treasured landscapes. As we approach the AT’s centennial in March 2025, National Park Trust is proud to highlight our contributions to protecting and enhancing this iconic trail. Through strategic land acquisitions and conservation efforts, we have worked with partners to preserve the AT’s scenic beauty, ecological integrity, and accessibility for future generations.
Bald Mountain Pond, ME
Maine’s Bald Mountain Pond is a pristine backcountry destination known for its rare landlocked arctic char and 150-year-old forest. In partnership with The Trust for Public Land, National Park Foundation, and others, we helped acquire 1,495 acres to protect this ecologically significant area from development in June 2019. The land includes five miles of the AT and is home to some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the National Park System.
Pawling, NY
In 2018, we joined The Trust for Public Land, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and the Oblong Land Conservancy in securing 219 acres near Pawling, NY—land that was slated for a 50-unit subdivision. This acquisition not only preserved scenic views but also allowed for crucial trail reroutes. The NPS can now move the AT away from sensitive endangered species habitats and relocate a parking area to protect the historic Dover Oak, the largest white oak in New York.
Hogan Hollow, VA
In 2020, National Park Trust successfully donated 239 acres of land in one of the most scenic areas of the AT to the National Park Service (NPS). This project began in 2018 when the Park Trust volunteered to temporarily hold the property after the landowner expressed the desire to sell it before the NPS was ready to accept it. After holding the deed for 13 months, the Park Trust facilitated the transfer, allowing for its permanent preservation. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy used a grant from the Virginia Outdoors Foundation to purchase the property, with support from The Conservation Fund.
Morgan’s Mill, VA
In 2024, National Park Trust played a crucial role in securing 128 acres of land along the AT in Virginia. The Park Trust stepped in with its Treasure Forever Revolving Fund to purchase the property when NPS could not meet the owners’ timeline. This parcel increases the wild buffer along the trail, safeguarding critical wildlife habitats and ensuring hikers will continue to enjoy spectacular views along their journey.
Troutville, VA
In 2022, National Park Trust responded to a critical request from the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to protect a scenic viewshed along the AT. Recognizing the urgency, we acted quickly to secure 122 acres of land at risk of being sold to a private entity. Using our Treasure Forever Revolving Fund, we purchased the land and will steward it until USFS can acquire it. This project ensures continued protection of the trail’s iconic views and provides vital buffer land along the corridor.
As we continue to protect and preserve the wild landscapes along the Appalachian Trail, your support plays a vital role in our success. Every piece of land we secure contributes to the legacy of this iconic trail and ensures that future generations of hikers can experience its natural beauty and historic views. Join us in safeguarding these treasured spaces — your contribution makes a lasting impact!
