We’re joined by Sandi Marra, the president and CEO at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. As we noted at the top of our previous podcast, the news and guidelines around COVID-19 and the trail system have been changing rapidly. At the time of the previous recording, the ATC asked people to postpone their thru-hikes. Since that recording, the ATC has increased the severity of their recommendations by urging people to avoid the Appalachian Trail altogether, even for day hikes.

Today’s interview will largely center around that subject, including how the ATC arrived to this decision, when Sandi predicts that the trail will be safe to hike and backpack again, among many other coronavirus-related questions.



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Sandi Marra of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Why was this decision reached to ask all people to stay off the Appalachian Trail? Both in the context of backpacking and day hiking. What does she have to say to those who are still on the trail? What guidance does she have for those who want to get off but are having trouble finding resources? When does she foresee the trail reopening? Her thoughts on hiking in general right now?

The Trek will be helping to put together a resource for those who are looking for a ride from the trail in the near future.

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