What is ethical behavior on the trail?
The Appalachian Trail was built and is maintained by volunteers. As a hiker, please take the responsibility of helping to keep the trail in good shape. Don’t shortcut the trail switchbacks which are an essential part of erosion control. The most difficult work in train maintenance is trying to correct erosion damage. Keep the A.T. clean. Don’t discard gum wrappers, soft drink cans or cigarette butts. Carry out all trash. There are trash barrels at most road crossings. Please avoid camping in heavy-use or impacted areas such as near shelters or next to streams. Try to camp out of sight of the trail when possible. If you must build a campfire, use only “down” wood, and build it only in an established fire ring. Be sure the fire is out before leaving camp. Don’t try to dispose of trash by burning it; this just causes others to have to carry out your melted and half-burned trash for you. Carry a small stove for cooking to minimize the impact on the environment. Try to camp in such a way th
