Rocky Top Crew
Experience the Smoky Mountains from a different perspective this fall working and camping on the Appalachian Trail. The Rocky Top Crew is sponsored by the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club, National Park Service, and ATC. The 70 miles of the Appalachian Trail through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park cross the Trail's highest point and traverse the most diverse ecosystem and largest roadless area along the Trail. Half of the Appalachian Trail in the Park is open to horse use, and the crew's current work involves reconstructing those sections where horses and hikers share the Trail. Happily, the crew is funded by a North Carolina Recreational Trails Program grant. Crew LifeClick for more information on working conditions and crew life in the field. Base CampThe Rocky Top Crew is based in national park seasonal housing. Crew members, when not in the field, lodge in rustic facilities with access to bathrooms, showers and a laundry room. Crew WeekBecause its work sites are so remote, the Rocky Top Crew has an 8-days-on, 3-days-off schedule. Crew members arrive on the afternoon before their work session for dinner and orientation. Crew members working more than one session may stay at the base camp during their days off. Please note that the Rocky Top Crew involves a long backpack in to the work site, and 8 days of backcountry camping. Rockin' Horse Crew SessionThe Rockin' Horse session of Rocky Top gives horseback riders first priority for volunteer slots. In 2009, the session is scheduled for September 24 through October 1. Please call (828) 254-3708 for more information. Sample ProjectsIn 2009, the Rocky Top crew will continue comprehensive north to south A.T. rehabilitation. Rock work is likely to predominate in 2009. Apply TodayNew Volunteers: We are setting the 2010 Trail crew schedule now. If you'd like to be added to the waiting list, register here, and we'll contact you as soon as the crew schedule is finalized. Give us a call at (540) 953-3571 or email crews@appalachiantrail.org with any questions. A.T. Trail Crew Alumni: Please contact us at crews@appalachiantrail.org for an alumni application.
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