The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is the only organization that has sole responsibility for protecting and promoting the A.T. experience. Established in 1925, the ATC celebrates 80 years of caring for the world's most famous long-distance hiking trail. Running 2,175 miles from Maine to Georgia, the A.T. is the nation's longest, most accessible National Park encompassing some 250,000 acres. ATC coordinates its management and protection in conjunction with the National Park Service and Appalachian Trail Park Office.

In addition, the Appalachian Trail runs through 8 national forests, making USDA Forest Service a close partner of the Appalachian Trail as well.