2025 Appalachian Trail Outreach, 18th Annual
March 20-23, 2025 (Thursday – Sunday)
Come for a few days or the entire time.
During the spring each year an average of 15 people per day begin the 2193 mile, 6-month journey to hike the Appalachian Trail. Beginning at Springer Mountain in north Georgia and ending in Maine, 15% of those who start quit their first week or in the first 30 miles.
Come be a presence in Christ’s name along those beginning miles of the Appalachian Trail. We are going as encouragers. We will pass out hundreds of apples, tend to first aid needs, provide moleskin for blisters, share God’s Word, and pray with those who allow us to do so. We plan to tent camp at Gooch Gap, setting up BENCHMARK’s Gooch Gap Pop-Up Cafe. There are other lodging options available in the area.
You can put in some miles meeting hikers on the trail or hang at Gooch Gap Cafe. We’ll have a pot of stew, hot drinks, dutch oven desserts, and will hand out apples and offer a special red bandana (see below). It’s a ‘no pressure’ operation.
Get your boots on, your servant’s heart in gear, and see what happens. There may even be some divine appointments that will not only change the life of a stranger, but your own as well.
Come for a few days and be a part of this service-oriented outreach.
This is a great experience for families or individuals.
From Those We Have Served
“Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Much appreciated. You did a good thing at Gooch.” “Glory to the resurrected King.” You are dear to me for the early hope you instilled. What you do matters. God bless you and yours.”
“Just wanted to thank you again for taking us under your wing! We are grateful and appreciate the help and love you give to each individual that comes your way!”
