The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is an iconic American treasure. Completed in 1937, the trail today contains key sections that are increasingly vulnerable to urban and commercial development — including two at-risk properties that could have degraded the trail’s scenery in Virginia and Vermont.

From the Appalachian Trail near Roanoke, Virginia, there is a stunning view of the 3,000-foot North Mountain. When a 237-acre property — situated along the mountain and prime for development — came up for sale, the trail’s viewshed was in jeopardy. Fortunately, The Conservation Fund’s capital and ability to move quickly allowed us to purchase the property so it could be protected as part of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.

Meanwhile, nearly 600 miles north of Virginia, we protected 629 acres surrounding the Appalachian Trail in Killington, Vermont. The existing trail corridor was a narrow 2,000-foot-wide ribbon, threatened by a growing demand for land near a large ski resort. In 2021 we transferred the property to the National Park Service so the agency could permanent protect the land as soon as federal funding became available. Safeguarding this acreage improves the trail experience for hikers and provides access for hiking, snowshoeing and skiing. The property also provides habitat for black bears, moose and migratory birds.

This work would not be possible without funding from the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund, which has been instrumental in augmenting our efforts along the Appalachian Trail. In collaboration with partners, we will continue to protect public access, scenic views and wildlife habitat along this rugged and beautiful trail system.