Hikers on the Appalachian Trail no longer have to bypass hurricane-damaged sections due to the introduction of a ferry service, offering a safer route.
Gearing up for an Appalachian trail adventure this summer? Here's a bit of good news that might make your journey smoother! Due to the destruction of a crucial bridge by Hurricane Helene, a new service has stepped in to help hikers cross the previously inaccessible Nolichucky River.
Remember Hurricane Helene, that raged through sections of the Appalachian Trail last September? The storm caused quite a stir, devastating North American wilderness and demolishing essential infrastructure like the Chestoa Bridge in Erwin, Tennessee. This vital bridge connected the Chestoa Pike and River Road sections, and without it, hikers faced a tricky and protracted detour through construction sites in the town of Nolichucky.
Times being what they are, however, the resourceful folks at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy found a way to help. Volunteers and officials have teamed up with a local rafting company to ferry Appalachian Trail trekkers across the Nolichucky River, allowing them to continue their epic journey.
The ferry service, funded by the ATC Resilience Fund, will begin operating on March 17, from 9am to 2pm on weekdays until June 15. It's a significant break for hikers, who will now avoid lengthy and potentially risky detours through construction zones.
The Appalachian Trail is the world's longest hikers-only footpath, stretching about 2,200 miles from Springer Mountain in northern Georgia to the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine. Boasting breathtaking scenery and a rich history, the trail has become a pilgrimage for hikers, attracting roughly three million visitors each year, with about 3,000 attempting to thru-hike the entire route.
If you're planning to join the ranks of these adventurous souls, remember to pack the right gear. Essentials include a trustworthy pair of hiking boots, reliable waterproof gear, and several layers. Check out our guide to the essential gear for a good hike.
- The best crampons: tested for sure-footed traction on frozen terrain
- The best climbing shoes: get a grip both indoors and out
As for the trail, other regions are also seeing community support and ongoing improvements. In the Harpers Ferry region, hikers often encounter existing ferry and transportation options, although a new ferry service has not been announced. Conservation and resiliency projects are also underway, with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's 2025 Wild East Action Fund supporting efforts to improve the trail's long-term resilience and connectivity.
Stay tuned for more updates on trail navigation, community support, and infrastructure developments, right here!
After the destruction of the Chestoa Bridge by Hurricane Helene, an outdoor-living ferry service has been established to help hikers cross the Nolachucky River, allowing for a smoother Appalachian trail lifestyle. This home-and-garden funded initiative by the ATC Resilience Fund will provide a significant advantage to hikers, particularly during their travel through the Tennessee area, as it avoids lengthy detours and potential risks in construction zones.
