Gateway communities are the small towns and cities that border America’s forests and National Parks, like the Appalachian Trail.  These towns are increasingly being “rediscovered” for their scenic beauty, quality of life, and their proximity to our nation’s natural wonders.  ATC began a Trail-wide initiative to strengthen relationships with gateway communities, with the hope that through engagement, we will:

• Develop and implement effective community partnerships. 
• Enhance communication with local municipalities about the Trail and its resources.
• Increase awareness and support of conserving the Trail, and the benefits it offers for open space conservation, sustainable development, tourism, outdoor recreation, and the fitness of residents, in Trailside communities.
• Work with communities on common goals and areas of concern.

The benefits of partnerships created through a gateway program often include, fostering a stewardship for natural resources among town citizens, providing opportunities for volunteering and civic engagement, and leveraging resources needed to protect community assets.

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy started work on this program in two small towns through which the Appalachian Trail passes.

Hot Springs, North Carolina
Boiling Springs, Pennsylvania
Great Barrington, Massachusetts