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The East Tennessee Hiking and Canoeing Club will have their monthly, second Saturday, Hiking with Tools event July 8 in the Shady Valley area. Activities will begin at 9:30 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m.
Maintaining the Appalachian Trail by clearing fallen trees, cutting back overgrown vegetation from the sides of the trail, and repainting trail markers keeps the Appalachian Trail alive. This – and so much more – is done by volunteers, who donate their time to care for this public resource.
For those who volunteer, it is not only a workday, but a day hike on the trail. Some minor tasks might include cleaning waterbeds and steps, lopping rhododendron, dismantling fire rings, or painting blazes or shelters. All tools will be provided, and no prior experience is required. It’s a great opportunity to meet some new hikers and have some fun.
Those participating are asked to wear long pants and sturdy boots, and bring plenty of water and snacks for the day, along with lunch, sunscreen, bug spray, a rain jacket and personal work gloves, as well as a mask and hand sanitizer.