New Bridge for A.T. Hikers at McAfee Knob
Last month, a new pedestrian bridge along the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) opened at the trailhead of Virginia’s iconic McAfee Knob. The bridge takes hikers over Route 311 as a long-term safety feature, thanks to a partnership between the Virginia Department of Transportation, the National Park Service, and other local, state, and federal agencies, along with A.T.-focused volunteer groups.
“The level of support and coordination for the construction of McAfee Knob trailhead bridge between municipalities, businesses, nonprofits, volunteers and the public agencies has been outstanding, and it speaks volumes about how cherished this stretch of the Appalachian Trail is,” Sandi Mara, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s president and CEO, stated in a press release. “I hope that the bridge provides a pathway for visitors to safely experience the transformational qualities that the Trail provides and enjoy the stunning view from atop McAfee Knob.”
The bridge is constructed with concrete and steel, measuring 90 feet in length, eight feet wide, and standing 17.5 feet above the road. It also has a sidewalk ramp to increase accessibility. The McAfee Knob trailhead parking lot, which was closed during the bridge’s construction, is now open again along with a shuttle that offers transportation to and from the trailhead with a reservation that can be made at https://mcafeeshuttle.com.
Appalachian Trail Festival in Northern Virginia Set to Return
Three communities in Northern Virginia will celebrate the A.T. later this spring at the Loudoun Appalachian Trail Festival. The sixth annual event on June 7 will be hosted by the towns of Bluemont, Round Hill, and Hillsboro at the latter’s Old Stone School grounds.
According to the event’s website, last year’s festivities had nearly 2,000 attendees and thru-hikers to enjoy live music, expert talks, outdoor-inspired arts and crafts, food, and camping.
The event is free and entirely run by volunteers and will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those who want to get involved are encouraged to reach out to organizers at https://www.loudounat.org/contact.html.
Cover photo courtesy of VDOT.
