The 2019 Appalachian Trail Kick-Off weekend at Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge is an annual event that attracts potential AT thru-hikers as well as trail enthusiasts and families alike. Many eager long-distance hikers leave Amicalola on this weekend after the event to set off on their long trek toward Maine. It is an exciting weekend full of presentations and talks about all things “Appalachian Trail”.
The ATKO offers a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and experience from people who stay involved with the trail as well as have already hiked it. This fun trail celebration is a great way to learn about the “newest, latest and greatest” hiking gear as well as hear about the “tried and true.” For me, having been a presenter in the past when I had a local hiking shop, it is a great way to connect with old friends as well as a way to keep learning about what’s changing in the industry.
The vendors and presenters this year did not disappoint.
Here is a list of the 2019 vendors and supporters: Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Appalachian Long-Distance Hikers Association (ALDHA), Hike for Mental Health, Appalachian Trail Chaplaincy, Leave No Trace, Friends of, Amicalola Falls State Park, REI, The Len Foote Hike Inn, Author Gary Sizer, Author Mic Lowther, Author Carol Steiner, Author Richard Judy, Etowah Gear, Lightheart Gear, Goosefeet Gear, Mountain Inspirations, Antigravity Gear, Mountain Crossings, Elemental Horizons, HikerTV, Benton MacKaye Trail Association, Amicalola Falls State Park.
It was a fun and informative event and I am excited to try out some new gear I found this weekend! Thank you to all the folks who came out to support the Appalachian Trail and all the people that love it!
