Volunteers are needed in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to participate in the Adopt-a-Trail (AAT) program, an effort that helps to maintain the park’s 800-mile trail system. Volunteers opportunities include trail maintenance that covers everything from picking up litter to removing tree-falls and reporting trail problems to the park.

Volunteers should be prepared to preform basic trail maintenance and are to hike/patrol the trail(s) at least four times per program year -- March through October. Specific trail duties include: Collect and remove litter; clean water bars and drainage systems; perform brushing and removal of small windfalls or branches (hand tools only); perform minor trail tread maintenance; remove illegal campsites and fire rings found along trail; inspect trail and trail signs; and promote Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.

Trainings will be held throughout the year. Interested participants can register by contacting Alan Chapman, Trails Volunteer Coordinator by phone at (828) 497-1949 or by email at Alan_Chapman@nps.gov. Part of the training is held outside and participants should wear appropriate clothing including sturdy footwear.