2019 New England National Scenic Trail Highlights

Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC)

Connecticut Forest & Park Association (CFPA)

OUTREACH

Programs — AMC and CFPA celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the NET’s designation as a national scenic trail with special events, programs, and a new “Hike100” component of the Hike50 Challenge. The National Park Foundation led a NET Meet-up/Teach-up with activities, learning, and a hike on the NET at Penwood State Park in collaboration with the trail’s Artist-in-Residence, Marisa Williamson, who explored untold stories of the trail’s past through her project “Monuments to Escape.”

PROTECTION

Land — Protected 23 acres in Easthampton, MA for new trailhead access; this acquisition will include access to rail trails, a handicap accessible overlook, new trailhead parking, and provide critical habitat protection. 

Planning — Conducted extensive GIS mapping and analysis of unprotected parcels on the NET on the Connecticut portion of the trail.

CAPACITY

Staffing — NPS Trail Administrator Charlie Tracy retired after 31 years with the National Park Service and 10 years with the New England Trail. The NET welcomed new NPS Trail Administrator Andrew Long.

Trainings — NPS and nonprofit partners offered employment experience to NET’s youth crews, who completed much-needed projects on the trail and gained training in Leave No Trace ethics, chainsaw skills, carpentry, first aid, rigging, and leadership.