Great Smoky Mountains seeking volunteers to adopt a trail

GATLINBURG, Tenn. – The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is recruiting volunteers to adopt a trail, according to a news release from the park.

Trail volunteers are asked to hike at least one designated trail four times each year and submit a report on conditions. With 848 miles of maintained trails, the information volunteers provide is critical to helping trail maintenance staff prioritize work, according to the release. The co-operation helps ensure that trails remain accessible to visitors.

Volunteers should be comfortable hiking in the backcountry and enjoy interaction with visitors, according to the release. A 3-hour training session is required. Information on adopting a trail and other volunteer opportunities is available at the Friends of the Smokies website under the “volunteer” tab.