PATC's MISSION STATEMENT

"The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, through volunteer efforts, education and advocacy, maintains and protects the Appalachian Trail and nearby lands as well as acquiring and maintaining other trails and related facilities in the Mid-Atlantic region for the enjoyment of present and future hikers."

Since 1927 the Club has offered and will coninue to offer outdoor experiences that allow all to appreciate the natural beauty of the land. As we hike and work, alone or together, we are the stewards of the land, ever mindful of the need to conserve the natural landscape with respect for historical and cultural features as well as the natural ecosystem.

Originally formed to develop a 240-mile section of the Appalachian Trail, PATC now maintains trails in wooded urban areas, suburban lands and county, state and national parks and forests. The club has responsibility for approximately 1,000 miles of trails, 1,000 acres of land and nearly 60 shelters and cabins. The trail system stretches over the four states of Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania and includes:
    - 240 miles of the Appalachian Trail (click here for a map)
    - most of the trails in theShenandoan National Park
    - most of the trails in Rock Creek Park, Washington, D.C.
    - the 18-mile Bull Run/Occoquan Trail in Fairfax County, VA
    - the Potomac Heritage Trail from Washington, D.C. to River Bend Park in Fairfax County.

The Club is additionally now embarked on restoring, securing and maintaining the 260-mile Tuscarora Trail which loops from the Appalachian Trail near Front Royal Va. through West Virginia and reconnects with the Appalachian Trail near Carlisle, Pa. This trail will be a vital link in the Atlantic Crest Trail which is planned to reach from Alabama to the Finger Lakes in New York State.

The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club welcomes all who would like to join us in our work to secure and maintain for generations to come the natural beauty of our lands. Work on trails, shelters, and cabins is performed solely by volunteers. PATC manages the efforts of over 600 volunteers performing this work so the public may enjoy the many trails in the PATC region. PATC's volunteer efforts in 2004 resulted in the contribution of more than 83,000 hours of manpower to various federal, state, and local government agencies.

Follow the navigation links at the left and top of the page to learn more about PATC. Click here to communicate with other hikers, clubs, and trail-related businesses.