This fall, Mid Atlantic Climbers planned a record five adopt-a-crags. After three events, we’ve had a record number of volunteers out.
The season’s third event was held this past weekend at Great Falls National Park in Virginia. This was MAC’s 11th event at the park and, despite the federal government being shut down until the Thursday prior, we were still able to hold the event.
On Saturday, a total of 22 volunteers spent a Saturday morning closing a social trail in the northern section of the park. Social trails are trails that are not established or maintained by the park system. Usually those who visit the park create them as a shortcut between trails or they are created by a large volume of foot traffic. Especially in parks like Great Falls, social trails can damage native plant species and cause unnecessary environmental impact. The trail MAC volunteers closed was used as a shortcut between two trails that were roughly 300 feet apart.
After finishing up the trail work, volunteers enjoyed a cookout sponsored by Solid Rock Climbers for Christ. Many volunteers also received prizes in the raffle. Some also stayed for a workshop on Leave No Trace principles.
Photos of the event can be seen on our Facebook page.
We have two more events this fall, including Northwest Branch on November 9 and Sugarloaf on November 30. To register for either event, go here.
Thanks to all of our volunteers who have come out so far this season! We hope to see you at our last two events of the year.