I frequently get asked, “What does an Appalachian Trail Ridgerunner do?”
While there is an official list of “essential duties and responsibilities” (attached below), I trust that my presence on the trail is primarily to be a beneficial steward of the trail and environment, a helpful resource to hikers, and a positive example for all others.
Many hikers I encounter are proficient backpackers and understand the basics well. Still, many are taking a daring leap of faith on the Appalachian Trail without much knowledge or experience. I am here to support all hikers in the ever-changing environment of a long walk through the Great Smoky Mountains and beyond. I consider it a great honor to hold this duty and find tremendous satisfaction and joy throughout my days and nights on the trail.
Sure, there are times and undoubtedly weather conditions that are more arduous on some days than others. But the challenges keep me learning and growing… and always show me how capable and resilient I am! Being a longtime advocate of the AT, a former thru-hiker, and a perennial instructor of the Leave No Trace principles have perfectly prepared me for a fabulous season in the enchanting Great Smoky Mountains. There isn’t a day that goes by that I am not overflowing with gratitude. I absolutely love my job!
Unfortunately, we recently lost one of our Smokies Ridgerunners. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is seeking a qualified person to step into this short-season position. Could you be the right person? If you are or know someone who would thrive in this capacity, please see the official job posting at the link below (and/or forward it to your friends!)
Thank you for helping us support and protect the treasure that is our Appalachian Trail!
xoxCollin
ATC’s “Essential Duties and Responsibilities” of a Ridgerunner:
- Meet and greet the public and educate them about the A.T., the ATC, local Trail Clubs, local land agencies, and Leave No Trace practices.
- Advise visitors on rules and regulations pertinent to the A.T. in the Smokies, including general backcountry and thru-hiker permits, and proper food storage.
- Perform minor Trail maintenance, including picking up litter on the Trail, overnight sites, and at trailhead parking areas.
- Assist with privy maintenance as needed.
- Assist visitors, and when necessary and able, aid in emergency response incidents.
- Report unsafe conditions, misuse, and abuse of the A.T. and its overnight facilities.
- Maintain regular contact with field supervisors, club volunteers, agency partners, and local officials.
- Complete a summary report at the end of each work period and attend a weekly debrief call with supervisors and partners.
- Regularly traverse steep and uneven terrain in all weather conditions, traveling upwards of 15 miles daily.
