The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, which does yeoman's work when it comes to helping the National Park Service oversee its namesake trail, has adopted a five-year strategic plan intended to lead to better protection and management of the trail.

The plan is seen as a vision and strategy that will build on the organization's stewardship of the trail while also aligning with the priorities of the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service.

The five key goals of the Strategic Plan include:

* Effective Stewardship: Be the leading voice with its partners in managing the A.T. and surrounding landscapes.

* Proactive Protection: Advocate for broader protection of the trail's natural and cultural resources.

* Broader Relevancy: Connect and engage with a younger and more diverse audience and broaden the understanding of the physical and mental benefits that the trail provides.

* Engaged Partners: Engage and sustain a network of partners that reinforces the Conservancy's goals for the A.T. and its programs.

* Strengthened Capacity & Operational Excellence: Continue to build a financially strong foundation and organizational capacity to ensure long-term success.

You can view the entire plan at this webpage. 

Together, these goals not only reinforce the idea that the trail can be enjoyed by a variety of users in multiple ways, but also that the A.T. should be readily accessible to all who wish to be a part of the experience.