Training Resources
MATC Training Resources
- Trail Maintenance 101 : Slides from 2025 MATC Volunteer Gathering
- Water Bar Maintenance Video – YouTube Video by Craig Dickstein
ATC Training Resources
- ATC’s Register Newsletter: The stewardship newsletter of the ATC is intended for all maintainers.
- ATC’s Register Blog: Official blog for “The Register” newsletter; containing articles and updates from the ATC about stewardship on the Appalachian Trail. Subscribe to the Blog
- Check out ATC’s Volunteer Training page for more resources!
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy released a series of video on essential trail maintenance which reflect updates made to the ATC’s Essential Trail Maintenance Curriculum. Anyone interested in gaining more skills (or applying your current skills) can find an opportunity to volunteer on the Trail in their region on the A.T. Volunteer Engagement Platform or through an A.T. maintaining club.
General
Planning for Appalachian Trail Maintenance
Maintaining the Centerline of the Appalachian Trail
Facilities Inspection
Safety
Blazing
Blazes on the A.T. from Georgia to Maine are white in color and rectangular in shape. They measure 2-inches by six-inches; the same dimensions as a U.S. dollar bill. Use a high-gloss exterior latex paint.
Brushing
The cleared A.T. should measure 4 feet wide by 8 feet tall; the same dimensions as a sheet of plywood. Tree limbs should be trimmed flush with the trunk and saplings should be cut at ground level or just below if possible. All cuttings should be removed from the trail.
Water Management
Rock Work
Jolly Rovers- Moving Rocks: Rock Work Techniques
Safety Tip: Pick Mattock & RockbarChainsaws
Trail Maintainers who wish to use a chainsaw while maintaining their section of trail must have the appropriate chainsaw certification. MATC offers Sawyer/Chainsaw Certification courses periodically.
Tip Sheets for Chainsaw Techniques and Safe Sawing
These tip sheets are a good refresher on techniques and do not take the place of training or certification.