MRATC Activities and Information, Week – July 19 – 25, 2026
- mratcboard
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
TRAIL WORK:
Sat., July 25: In a reschedule of a workday that was rained out a couple weeks ago, on Sat July 25th we will meet at Massie Gap at 9:30 and continue dismantling fire rings just north of Grayson Highlands in concert with the ongoing USFS fire ban. Depending on group size we might also reset some signposts in the vicinity. This project is suitable for all who are comfortable with a hiking distance of 4 to 5 total miles. Participants should bring water, lunch/snack and work gloves. RSVP if you plan to attend:
or send an e-mail to trails@mratc.org
MRATC HIKES:
Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park spans 2,076 acres in Unicoi County, East TN, near the community of Flag Pond and the TN/NC state line. Address is Rocky Fork State Park, 501 Rocky Fort Rd., Flag Pond, TN 37657.
We will hike out and back on the Flint Creek Trail, approx. 4 miles. The hike can be extended to the reach the AT for a longer 6+ mile hike.
The hike is along a beautiful creek with water cascades and crossings, which makes for a cooler summer hike.
Hike leaders Jan & Chuck Mather.
Abingdon hikers will carpool from Lowe's at 9AM for the 1 hr. 18 min. drive.
Trailhead hikers will meet for a 10:30 AM departure.
Bring lunch, water and rain gear.
Please RSVP on the MRATC website:
UPCOMING EVENTS:
VIRGINIA HIGHLANDS FESTIVAL. Starts July 24th. Lots of great outdoor events! Register at Virginia Highlands Festival |
ATC-Virginia Highlands Festival “Day in Damascus” Day. July 30.
SUMMER NATURALIST RALLY, Aug. 7-8. Website to view field trips and register:
KONNAROCK CREW POTLUCK, Aug. 11 – Held at Konnarock Base Camp, Flat Ridge Rd., Sugar Grove, VA. Setup: 5:30, dinner: 6:00. More details on what food club members can bring will be coming in the next couple of Sunday emails. It’s a great opportunity to show appreciation for the Crew members who have done many work projects on our section this year.
KONNAROCK CREW – upcoming project in our area to join:
Aug. 7-11
This project will complete the construction of stone steps and cribbing on the Trail, south of Comer’s Creek. The worksite is next to the tallest cascade waterfall on the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Hike to the worksite is 0.5 miles from the trailhead. The crew will stay at the Konnarock Basecamp and commute to and from the worksite each day.
For information about other Konnarock Crew projects outside of MRATC’s area, visit:
VIRGINIA CREEPER TRAIL: The date for the opening of the Virginia Creeper Trail, agreed upon by the Mt.Rogers National Recreation Area and Kiewit Construction, will be March 31, 2027. The whole reconstructed trail will be opened at once. The Forest Service and Kiewit Construction will be checking the trail during the winter to look for any drainage problems or other issues.
ATC NEWS:
2026 Emerging Leaders Summit (ELS):
We're looking for passionate emerging leaders (ages 18–30) who are interested in conservation, outdoor stewardship, leadership development, and helping shape the future of the Appalachian Trail community.
The application is found here. Location and date included.
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