The 2016 Dahlonega Trail Fest is more than a shout out to the Appalachian Trail. Even if you never plan to set boot on the most magnificent pathway in the Eastern United States, come and hear about other ways to have fun outdoors.
This year, Trail Fest starts around 3 PM on Friday, September 9th. Yes, the festival used to grace downtown Dahlonega around the vernal equinox (also known as “spring”) when hordes of AT hikers kick off their northward hikes. Their goal is Baxter State Park in Maine, home to Katahdin, the northern terminus of the Trail. The southern terminus of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail is atop Springer Mountain.
Dahlonega Trail Fest celebrates the proximity of the Appalachian Trail to Dahlonega and the completion of southbound thru hikes. The festival features speakers, authors, equipment vendors, information booths, music, a beer and wine garden, trail films, workshops, a mountain bike course, boating instruction, and MORE!
Friday’s program offers a lecture from an adventurer who paddled his way to the Gulf of Mexico, a film about the Pacific Coast Trail and music by the Threadbare Skivvies. Hear Gene Espy share memories of his famous hike on Saturday morning. Other AT thru-hikers will also talk about their exploits on Saturday and Sunday mornings.
You’ll find good food, good folks and plenty of information on how to enjoy the outdoors at the 2016 Dahlonega Trail Fest.
