The Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail are two of America’s most iconic long-distance hiking trails. They’re struggling in the wake of recent cuts to federal funding and widespread damage from recent severe storms. A month ago, the Appalachian Trail turned 100. Hurricane Helene left a wide swath of devastation, affecting almost 500 miles of the trail’s 2,193-mile run from Georgia to Maine. Meanwhile, the Pacific Crest Trail, spanning 2,650 miles across California, Oregon, and Washington, has suffered from wildfires and funding shortages.
The National Park Service has always played a crucial role in the protection of the Appalachian Trail. In contrast, the Pacific Crest Trail Association, there’s a crunch coming, running on a third less federal grant money than expected. With funding cut by about 80 percent, that’s resulted in cuts much wider across all the agencies. Because of this, thousands of workers—from trail reconstruction specialists to fire suppression experts—have been furloughed from the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service.
Funding Challenges Impacting Repairs
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy recently expressed concern that both organizations could suffer major funding cuts. They pointed out that at least $1.5 million may be lost due to federal downsizing. During this time, as various government agencies have continued to face acute budget constraints, the funds available to maintain and repair these nationally significant trails have dried up. The National Park Service, meanwhile, has seen a net loss of almost 1,500 staff. This staffing cutback strains their capacity to address pressing repair demands.
“This year, we’re going to have less trail work done on the trails, so just know that going into your hike, safety is the most important thing,” – Eric Kipperman
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail has enjoyed continued funding even with these hurdles. The National Park Service’s continued support is essential for the care of the trail’s infrastructure and public access. With portions of the trail still closed due to Hurricane Helene’s aftermath—over 20 miles remain inaccessible—hikers may find navigating these areas increasingly difficult.
The Impact of Natural Disasters
Natural disasters have taken a massive toll on both hikes, with Hurricane Helene still a noticeable imprint on the Appalachian Trail. With the damage incurred, safety and accessibility may become an alarming concern for hikers.
“For hikers, they’re going to be crawling, navigating, working their way through downed trees across the trail that won’t get cut out,” – Justin Kooyman
Unfortunately, the Pacific Crest Trail has not been spared from these closures. Recent years have seen nearly 250 miles scorched by wildfires, presenting serious hazards for outdoor enthusiasts and challenging maintenance efforts. The convergence of threats that environmental change brings with a much-lower-capability workforce present challenges that make the future of both trails uncertain.
“It’s going to make for a little more rough and tumble,” – Justin Kooyman
Those ongoing, necessary repairs are not just about maintaining our natural beauty, keeping people safe and creating equal access to all of our natural places. With less resources going towards trail maintenance, hikers experience greater risks as they start their treks.
Future of America’s Scenic Trails
Our federal government’s commitment to providing for the public safety and access to recreational opportunities must stand firm against these challenges. The cuts have made it impossible for organizations like the Pacific Crest Trail Association to continue to do its mission.
Marias Michel, an avid hiker, shared her perspective on the current situation:
“I want to test myself. No expectations. It’s an attempt until you make it.”
Sandi Marra highlighted a growing concern surrounding public appreciation for these protected outdoor spaces:
“I am so concerned with what seems to be a general lack of appreciation for what these protected outdoor spaces can bring to not just our physical well-being but to our souls.”
With things being how they are, outdoor lovers will need to be careful during their fall hikes. They need to be in-tune with the changing state of the trails.
