Free Appalachian Trail Hiker Ferry Across Nolichucky River

By

NPT Staff

Published Date

March 18, 2025

A river raft ferry is being provided north-bound hikers on the Appalachian Trail at Erwin, Tennessee/A.T., Valerie Bradley

Appalachian Trail hikers coming through and visiting the town of Erwin in Tennessee now have a safe way to cross the Nolichucky River this spring. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is providing a free daily ferry service to transport A.T. hikers across the Nolichucky River near the former site of the Chestoa Pike Bridge, which was destroyed during Hurricane Helene in September 2024.

The river raft ferry, provided in partnership with Wahoo’s Adventure Nolichucky, will operate 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily through June 15. Made possible thanks to donations to the ATC’s Appalachian Trail Resiliency Fund, the hiker ferry will be the official route of the A.T. during its operation this spring.

“The amazing outpouring of support for the A.T. following Hurricane Helene has fueled cleanup efforts that have reopened more than 400 miles of the trail quicker than we ever imagined,” said Franklin Tate, ATC regional director. “While there’s still much work to do to repair and restore Trail features and habitat and to fully reconnect the A.T., including rebuilding the Chestoa Pike Bridge, we are grateful to everyone who donated and made this service possible to help 2025 hikers safely hike through the A.T. Community™ of Erwin and Unicoi County.”

The ferry is made possible in partnership with the Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club, Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping, Unicoi County and Erwin, Tenn.

"The Appalachian Trail is a vital part of Erwin’s identity and economy, and we are proud to support efforts that enhance the experience for hikers passing through our community,” said Michael Baker, Town of Erwin alderman. “This ferry service not only provides a safe and reliable crossing of the Nolichucky River but also reaffirms our town’s commitment to welcoming and assisting outdoor enthusiasts. We appreciate the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and all the partners involved in making this happen."

"Outdoor recreation is a cornerstone of economic growth in Unicoi County, and this new hiker ferry service represents a major step forward in strengthening our region’s connection to the Appalachian Trail,” said Austin Finch, economic development director with Unicoi County Economic and Community Development. “By ensuring safe passage across the Nolichucky River, we are enhancing accessibility, boosting local tourism, and reinforcing Erwin’s reputation as a premier trail town. We’re excited to see the positive impact this initiative will have on both hikers and our local businesses."

Northbound A.T. hikers looking to use the ferry should go to Uncle Johnny’s Nolichucky Hostel Cabins & Camping to reserve a seat. Dogs and children are allowed on the ferry with their owner or an adult.

The 3.6-mile road walk detour that was blazed earlier in 2025 can be used when the ferry is not operating or as an alternate route if weather or other circumstances restrict service. For more information and resources to hike the Appalachian Trail in sections impacted by Hurricane Helene in 2025, visit appalachiantrail.org/helene.

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