History, hikes, and, of course, trail lore, will be the main attractions during the Appalachian Trail Conservancy's 40th Biennal Conference when it convenes in Winchester, Virginia, in July.
The week-long conference, July 17-24, will be based at Shenandoah University in Winchester. During the week there will be hiking excursions, workshops, exhibits, and nightly entertainment.
The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club and the Mountain Club of Maryland will present "Hiking Through History" during the conference. Aspects of this program will include hikes on the Appalachian Trail, in area Civil War parks, and on other trails close to the university.
A glance through the conference program shows talks on sustainable trail design, "Trail Maintenance for Newbies," wildflowers along the iconic foot path, land preservation, and hiking with children.
Registration opened Wednesday at this website. The last day for early registration discounts is May 31. Online registration closes July 1. A full, adult registration runs $110 through the end of May, and then bumps up to $125. Attendees 13-25 will be charged $55 during the early registration period, and then $60.
The conference is open to all-comers, but if you're not an ATC member or a member of an Appalachian Trail maintaining club you'll have to pay an additional $40 membership fee to attend.