and tent site space for up to 12 individual distance hikers at the Birches Distance Hiker site.In 2004, 1,021 AT hikers entered Baxter State Park. Many of these are northbound thru-hikers, a lower number are southbound or section hikers on the AT.
The main work detail inside Park boundaries for the Abol Bridge Ridge Runner is checking and managing the hiker sign-up sheet for overnight stays in the Park. The Abol Bridge Ridge Runner greets hikers entering the Park and informs them of the sign-up sheet for shelter
and tent site space for up to 12 individual distance hikers at the Birches Distance Hiker site.
South of the Park boundary, the Abol Bridge Ridge Runner will assist the local trail overseer in maintenance duties as far south as Hurd Brook Lean-to, Rainbow Spring campsite, and Rainbow Stream Lean-to, assisting with minor trail maintenance and litter pick-up along the trail corridor.
Later in the season, there is a greater need for the position to work closer to the kiosk at Abol Bridge in order to intercept and communicate with flip-flopping hikers and thru-hikers. Routine record keeping on number of contacts, trail conditions, educational ideas for consideration, etc., is also part of this position.
"A person on the ground, encountered near the approach to the Park, making efforts to facilitate hikers' understanding of the limited overnight accommodations and special arrangements for distance hikers in the Park has made all the difference for both the hikers and staff. They finish one of the most important hikes of their lives with a good feeling.
"In addition to a better understanding of The Park's mission and policies, through contact with the Abol Ridgerunner, long distance hikers become educated on the cooperative nature of the AT, the many organizations and agencies involved, and the necessity of people from all walks of life to contribute their energy and commitment to the concept of a long distance trail."
--Jean Hoekwater, Naturalist at Baxter State Park
