The Appalachian Trail (AT) is over 2,000 miles long and attracts thousands of hikers from across the world to walk part or the entirety of the trail. Many thru-hikers begin their 2,000+ mile journey in early spring at Springer Mnt., GA, the southern terminus of the AT (mile 0.0). This unique long distance trail pilgrimage calls to individuals from all walks of life. This project will introduce students to the history and culture of the AT through day hikes, seminars, and an introductory backpacking experience. Integrated throughout the project will be themes about inclusion in outdoor spaces. Seminars and field workshops led by honors faculty, NPS, USFS, and ATC partners highlight the cooperative management of the AT. A hike and overnight visit to Len Foote Hike Inn will highlight many environmental conservation practices and connect our group with unique individuals visiting this backcountry retreat. Partnering with the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club (GATC) will afford the opportunity to participate in a trail work trip to join the stewards that sustain this trail. This project is designed with the Challenge by Choice, to be welcoming to all regardless of their level of experience in the outdoors.

Tentative Itinerary

It’s always tentative until it happens – due to the nature of these projects  adaptability is required

May 20, 2024 Monday – TRAVEL DAY - ARRIVAL

• Participants arrive at Atlanta (ATL) airport
• MARTA to hotel
• Initial discussion about Belonging in the outdoors – The Adventure Gap
• Introductions / Assemble First Aid Kits / Dinner

May 21, 2024  Tuesday Amicalola Falls State Park

• Drive to Amicalola Falls (90 minutes)
• Discussions: Outdoor Afro – Atlanta: Belinda Dapreis
• Leave no Trace
• ATC Next Generation Youth Council
• Lunch conversation with ATC, Intro to Cooperative Management of AT Setup Camp
• Appalachian Trail – Cooperative Management
• Reading / Writing / Reflection / Relax
• Group meal preparation / Dinner
• Evening discussions 
  
  

May 22, 2024 Wednesday Len Foote Hike Inn

• Breakfast / Pack and shakedowns
• Break camp and backpack to Len Foote Hike Inn (5.4 miles)
• Len Foote Hike Inn orientation
• Built-in down time / Reading / Writing / Reflecting
• Above the Grid – Facility Tour
• Family Style dinner at Hike Inn
• Evening educational program offered through Len Foote Hike Inn
  
  

May 23, 2024 Thursday  Springer Mnt

• Breakfast
• Hike to summit of Springer mountain (5.1 miles)
• Lunch & Discussion at mile 0.0
• Set up camp at Springer Mountain AT Shelter
• Reading / Writing / Reflection
• Built-in down time
• Group meal preparation / Dinner
• Evening discussions
  
  
  

May 24, 2024  Friday Stover Creek Shelter

• Breakfast
• Hike to Stover Creek Shelter
• Reading / Writing / Reflection
• Group meal preparation / Dinner
• Evening discussions
  
  
  

May 25, 2024  Saturday Trailwork with Georgia Appalachian Trail Club

• Breakfast
• Morning: Hike ~ 1 mile to the USFS road trailhead
• Trail work project with GATC (Lunch)
• Return to Amicalola Falls SP Campground:
• Reading / Writing / Reflection
• Group meal preparation / Dinner
• Evening discussions

May 26, 2024 Sunday Amicalola Falls S.P

• Breakfast
• NPS Artist in Residence Program / Appalachian Barn Quilt workshop
• Afternoon: Zip Lining 1:30 – 3:30 pm (reservation is for 12)
• Time to work on final presentations
• Group meal preparation / Dinner
• Evening – Final Presentations 
  

May 27, 2024 Monday Departure day – return to Atlanta, shuttle departing participants to ATL airport

• Breakfast
• Break camp
• Return to Atlanta, shuttle departing participants to ATL airport
• Those flying out are encouraged to schedule flights that depart 2:00 pm and later. 

If you have any questions regarding your trip specifically, please contact your trip facilitators listed below. They will be sending you more information regarding what to pack, and any supplies you may need for your trip.

Trip Facilitators

Christina McIntyre, Virginia Tech

• Christina McIntyre is the Director of Professional Development and National and International Scholarships for the Honors College at Virginia Tech guiding students through the process of applying for major national and international opportunities. Christina has served on the board of NCHC, chair of the Partners in the Parks and the Major National Scholarships committees, and as the 2022 NCHC President. She serves as the faculty advisor for the Outdoor Club at Virginia Tech, which maintains 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail in southwestern Virginia. She is certified by MEDIC SOLO in Advanced Wilderness First Aid.