Trail Karma Archives - ��ԹϺ�� Online

This Is What Trail Town Residents Want Thru-Hikers to Know

POM Administrator — Sat, 31 May 2025 08:00:35 +0000

Trail towns play an outsize role in a thru-hiker’s journey. Serving as celebratory checkpoints, physical pit stops, resupply junctions, med centers, and social refreshers, some mountain communities have gained a reputation as

But longtime trail town residents and veteran hikers say that far too many long-distance trekkers—and especially newbs—fail to fully capitalize on the resource. And that’s to their detriment.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) estimates that “just one out of every four people that set out to thru-hike the AT each year will make it,” says Adam Stanley, who owns three hostels along the southern half of the fabled route. “We experience that attrition firsthand at our two Virginia locations and I’d say at least half of [those failures] boil down to people not fully taking advantage of their time in town.”

Here, he and other thru-hikers and trail town fixtures share their top do’s and don’ts for backpackers passing through.

Trail Town Residents Want You To Succeed

on long routes like the AT worked hard to achieve that distinction from cooperative management groups like the ATC. The recognition awards cities and towns for providing excellent resources to hikers and serving as exemplary trail stewards. And most locals know and care about it.

“This community loves thru-hikers and is extremely proud of our designation as an Appalachian Trail Community,” says Franklin, North Carolina, resident Cory McCall, who owns hiker-centric gear shop, Outdoor 76. The trail attracts “people from all across the country and around the world, and thousands of them pass through here each year.”

The tourism influx is a powerful economic and cultural driver for the rural, 4,300-person town. Restaurants, shops, breweries, hotels, campgrounds, and businesses like McCall’s count on it for their livelihood. And those tax dollars help boost local quality of life.

“The vast majority of people that live here will go out of their way to make sure hikers feel welcome,” says McCall. Furthermore, “we’re used to people passing through and that depth of experience makes us not just uniquely qualified, but willing to take the time to help out.”

McCall says that, when it comes to hiker help, hostels and outfitters are like de facto visitor centers. “People don’t start these businesses to get rich, because that ain’t gonna happen,” he says. “We do it because we love the culture; we’re really just hikers helping hikers.”

Stanley agrees. He launched his flagship in Waynesboro, Virginia, in 2010. More than 10,000 thru- and section hikers have since passed through its doors.

“I think new hikers in particular are often too hesitant to ask for help or seek advice,” he says. “So my number one thing I would tell them is: We appreciate the amazing journey you’re on, understand its personal importance, and legitimately want to see you succeed.”

If a hiker has questions about daily mileage, needs advice for a tasty dinner spot, an open ear to air doubts, or help figuring out gear, he urges them to just ask.

“If we can’t answer a question directly or help out ourselves,” says Stanley, “we’re going to do our best to connect you to someone who can.”

Hikers gather outside Stanimal’s 328 hostel. (Photo: Magdalena Cypcarz)

Every Town Is Different, So Plan Accordingly

No two trail towns are built the same—and that’s a good thing. But it does necessitate some advance logistical considerations.

“It’s important to look at what resources are available where and at least make a loose plan around that,” says Larry Riddle, who hiked the AT multiple times before opening in Damascus, Virginia, in 2007.

From a pragmatic standpoint, that means asking questions like: Does the town have a Walmart for a full-fledged resupply or just a tiny, locally-owned convenience store? Where’s the post office? Is there a brick-and-mortar outfitter that can help you troubleshoot or upgrade gear? Are there hiker-friendly hostels like Larry’s where you can send a two-day or overnight Amazon order while still on the trail?

Then it’s on to the fun part: Amenities and culture. “Every so-called trail town has its own unique local flavor and neat things to see and do,” says Riddle. “I think a lot of hikers tend to overlook that aspect of [the long-trail experience], because they’ll go in with these presuppositions and kind of lump all of these communities into one barrel.”

Damascus, for instance, offers exquisite trout fishing and sits on a staggeringly scenic rail-to-trail route. Roanoke, Virginia, boasts a killer craft brewery and restaurant scene. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, pairs beautiful historic Colonial architecture with amazing kayaking on the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The list goes on.

“I tell hikers to take some time to really immerse themselves in these towns or maybe even look at the next town over and check out what they have to offer,” says Riddle. After all, hiking a long trail is about having a badass adventure, not trudging nose-to-the-proverbial-grindstone for months on end.

“Look at it like a once-in-a-lifetime vacation,” he says. “Go into these places, take a little time off the trail, relax, and treat yourself to something different.”

Have Fun, but Be a Good Visitor

Yes, you’re on a bucket list journey and breezing through places you may never visit again. And spotting that big beautiful town limits sign after days of roughing it in the wilderness can hit like a clarion call from Bacchus himself. But that doesn’t give you permission to act like a would-be star of Spring Breakers Gone Wild.

“If you like to have a drink, that’s great, so do I,” says Stanley. But remember, alcohol and other substances can have an intensified effect after sustained, strenuous physical activity. “You just want to make sure you’re doing it in a way that’s responsible and being considerate of those around you.”

Like Waynesboro, lots of trail towns feature breweries, distilleries, and maybe a restaurant or sports bar. But there usually isn’t much in the way of a late-night party scene. Furthermore, that , says Riddle, seems to be well on the wane.

“The amount of binge-drinking and partying seems to have gone way down over the past 10 years or so, and that’s a good thing,” says Riddle. “People go out, have a beer, listen to some live music at the brewery, but they’re back here hanging around the firepit by 10 and usually dead asleep by midnight.”

And remember: Many of the people you meet while you’re hanging out in town will be fellow thru-hikers and section hikers. You may see these people again, and you’ll want them to remember you fondly.

“These are the people you’re sharing the trail with,” says Stanley. “They’re going to talk to guys and gals like me—or those staying with me—about things they’ve experienced along the way. You don’t want to be the person who shows up that everyone has been warning people about.”

But Stanley and Riddle are quick to note such situations are exceedingly rare.

“The vast majority of people are out here behaving themselves, hiking their own hike, and having a great time,” says McCall. The number one rule is, “if you treat folks out here with kindness and respect, 99 percent of the time, that’s how they’re going to treat you.”

The post This Is What Trail Town Residents Want Thru-Hikers to Know appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Discover Trail Karma

dshively@outsideinc.com — Tue, 20 May 2025 18:27:55 +0000

Learn more about Trail Karma, ��ԹϺ��’s groundbreaking give-back program with Gaia GPS, launching on our partner mapping platform now with Toyota’s sponsorship of the following 20 standout trails across the U.S.

The post Discover Trail Karma appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Your Trails Need You Now More Than Ever. Here Are 3 Ways to Give Back.

Corey Buhay — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 20:12:06 +0000

There are two ways to take the near-constant news about maintenance backlogs on public lands: let yourself get discouraged—or step up and start giving back. Amid national park service layoffs, funding freezes, policy changes, and a general tightening down of the economy, many trail organizations have been left scrambling for funding. That means they need your help now more than ever. Here are three empowering ways to give back, score matching funds, and get involved in protecting your favorite trails.

Donate to Trail Karma to Snag a Funds Match

For about a decade, the program has enabled trail users to donate to local organizations to protect trails near them. And this year, Toyota has partnered with ��ԹϺ�� to help readers’ dollars go even further. The company is currently donating a total of $20,000 to 20 different small trail advocacy organizations across the U.S., including in the Ozarks, the Cascades, the Southern Appalachians, Pike’s Peak National Forest, and Maine’s North Woods. On top of that, it’s making $80,000 available in matching funds. There’s no cap on the amount each trail organization can earn within that $80,000—which means that if you can round up enough friends to donate $80K fast, your favorite trail could have $160K of improvements coming its way by the end of the year.

A Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers crew tackles some trailwork on public land in Western Colorado. (Photo: Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers/rfov.org)

Create a Trailwork Event Through The American Hiking Society

Since its founding in 1976, the American Hiking Society has worked hard to build, maintain, and protect some of the nation’s most classic trails. It’s perhaps most famous for its , which galvanize hikers across the country to build and restore classic routes. Join a local event, or create your own for a trail in need. Looking for other empowering ways to chip in? Consider donating. ��ԹϺ�� has even partnered with AHS to sweeten the deal: or more over the course of a year, and you’ll get a free subscription.

Sign Up for an IMBA Volunteer Day

Mountain bike trails take some serious abuse, and they require constant maintenance to keep the ride fun, flowy, and safe. That’s where the IMBA comes in handy. The International Mountain Bicycling Association partners with dozens of smaller trail advocacy organizations across the state. Use the to find your local group, then reach out to sign up for upcoming volunteer days. Swing a shovel, learn about sustainable trail design, and leave knowing you were part of the solution.

The post Your Trails Need You Now More Than Ever. Here Are 3 Ways to Give Back. appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:30:11 +0000

The Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway (DBBB) is a scenic and challenging 96-mile route in eastern Kentucky’s Red River Gorge and Daniel Boone National Forest. Open year-round for licensed 4WD vehicles, it features a mix of gravel roads, trails, and asphalt, offering diverse off-road terrain.

Click to learn more about Trail Karma, with , launching on our partner mapping platform now with Toyota’s sponsorship of 20 standout trails across the U.S.—matching donations to these key trail-maintenance organizations up to $100K.

The post Trail Karma: Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Cinnamon Pass

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:20:49 +0000

Cinnamon Pass, at 12,640 feet in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, is a key feature of the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, linking Lake City and Silverton. This high-altitude pass offers stunning alpine views, wildflowers, and access to historic sites like the Animas Forks ghost town. The western approach is steep and rocky, requiring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, while the eastern side is more moderate but still challenging. Open seasonally from late May to October, the pass is part of a 65-mile off-road loop that also includes Engineer Pass. It’s a must-visit for history, scenery, and off-road adventure enthusiasts.

The post Trail Karma: Cinnamon Pass appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Long Canyon

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 17:00:01 +0000

Long Canyon Road is a scenic route near Moab, Utah. The gravel road descends nearly 2,000 feet, offering stunning views of red rock formations, the La Sal Mountains, and unique features like Pucker Pass, where you drive under a fallen boulder.

The post Trail Karma: Long Canyon appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: The Mojave Road

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:55:05 +0000

The Mojave Road is a historic route traversing California’s Mojave Desert, rich in history and adventure. Originating as a Native American trade path, it was later utilized by Spanish explorers, American settlers, and the military, playing a pivotal role in westward expansion. Today, the Mojave Road is a celebrated off-road trail for enthusiasts seeking a blend of history and desert landscapes. The journey typically takes about three days, offering opportunities for undeveloped camping along the way.

The post Trail Karma: The Mojave Road appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Movie Road

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:44:25 +0000

Movie Road in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, California, is a scenic dirt road known for its dramatic rock formations and stunning views of Mount Whitney. It has a rich cinematic history, serving as a filming location for numerous Westerns and modern movies like Iron Man and Django Unchained. Accessible via Whitney Portal Road, Movie Road offers dispersed camping, hiking trails (including to the iconic Mobius Arch), and excellent photography opportunities, especially at sunrise and sunset.

The post Trail Karma: Movie Road appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Echo Trail

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:42:21 +0000

The Echo Trail is a scenic byway in northern Minnesota, connecting Ely and Orr through the Superior and Kabetogama State Forests. Once a logging road, it now serves as a gateway to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW). The trail offers access to camping, hiking, fishing, and boating, with highlights including Lake Jeanette Campground and the Astrid Lake Hiking Trail. (Photos from Chris Cordes)

The post Trail Karma: Echo Trail appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma: Ozark Overland ��ԹϺ�� Trail

dshively@outsideinc.com — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:41:21 +0000

The Ozark Overland ��ԹϺ�� Trail (OOAT) is an overlanding route through the stunning Ozark National Forest in Arkansas, offering a mix of rugged terrain, water crossings, and historic sites. Best tackled over 4-8 days, it’s ideal for 4×4 vehicles equipped with all-terrain tires, 4-low, and recovery gear, especially during wet seasons when water crossings become more challenging. The route showcases the region’s beauty with dense forests, waterfalls, and clear rivers, while also providing access to historical landmarks like cabins and schoolhouses. Numerous campsites along the way make it perfect for immersive backcountry adventures, and Leave No Trace principles are encouraged.

For a detailed look at the trail, Ozark Overland ��ԹϺ��s’ YouTube series offers an excellent guide.

The post Trail Karma: Ozark Overland ��ԹϺ�� Trail appeared first on ��ԹϺ�� Online.

Trail Karma Archives - �����ԹϺ��� Online