Preserving the Appalachian Trail Experience in Virginia and Vermont

Near Roanoke, Virginia, there is a stunning view of the 3,000-foot North Mountain from the Appalachian Trail. When a 237-acre property — situated along the mountain and prime for development — came up for sale, the trail’s viewshed was in jeopardy. Fortunately, The Conservation Fund’s capital and ability to move quickly allowed us to purchase the property swiftly so it could be protected as part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

^{View of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in Killington. Photo by Green Mountain Club}

Nearly 600 miles north of Virginia, we protected 629 acres surrounding the Appalachian Trail in Killington, Vermont. The existing trail corridor was a narrow 2,000-foot-wide ribbon, threatened by a growing demand for land near a large ski resort. In 2021 we transferred the property to the National Park Service for permanent protection when federal funding became available. Protecting the land improves the trail experience for hikers and provides access for hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. The property also provides habitat for black bears, moose and migratory birds.

This work would not be possible without LWCF funding, which has been instrumental in increasing our efforts along the Appalachian Trail. In collaboration with partners, we will continue to protect public access, scenic views and wildlife habitat along this rugged and beautiful trail system.

LEARN MORE

Our efforts to protect parts of the Appalachian Trail
Press Release: “Added Protection For The Appalachian Trail In Killington, Vermont“
Press Release: “Trail Viewshed Protected on Virginia’s North Mountain“

Credit: Appalachain Trail Conservancy

AT A GLANCE

Winding across mountaintops and through valleys, the Appalachian Trail is the longest footpath in the world — stretching 2,190 miles across 14 states from Maine to Georgia.
For nearly a century, day-hikers and thru-hikers have traveled through this rugged and beautiful trail system. More than 3 million people visit the Trail each year.

PROJECT EXPERTS

Sally Manikian
State Director, New Hampshire and Vermont
Heather Richards
State Director, Virginia and Director, Mid-Atlantic Region, Conservation Acquisition

PROJECT PROGRAMS

Conservation Acquisition