Volunteer Spotlight: Peter Hedrich and Mike Hendrick Keep Trails Alive

Peter Hedrich, left, and Mike Hendrick, right, both help maintain the trails at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania NMP.

On a crisp morning along the Chancellorsville History Trail—one of the many picturesque trails in the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park—you might hear a rhythmic tap-tap-tapping deep in the woods. That sound often comes from Peter Hedrich and Mike Hendrick, two dedicated volunteers with the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC), hard at work maintaining the trail system that so many enjoy.

On this particular day, Peter and Mike are tackling a sunken boardwalk. Armed with tools, materials, and determination, they’ve packed everything they need deep into the woods to repair this vital pathway. It’s not unusual for their work to take place in tough conditions—whether it’s chilly weather or squelching mud, they remain steadfast in their mission to preserve the park’s trails.

Peter, who leads the local PATC chapter, says his love of volunteering stems from his passion for the outdoors and working in nature. For Mike, a retired military veteran, it’s all about the people. He says that he loves seeing someone walking along a trail he’s helped to repair.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of Peter, Mike, and the entire PATC volunteer crew, visitors can experience FRSP’s trails in all their splendor. Their dedication ensures that these natural and historical treasures remain accessible for generations to come.

The next time you’re on a trail, crossing a bridge, or strolling down a boardwalk, take a moment to appreciate the hands that made it possible. Volunteers like Peter and Mike are the unsung heroes of the National Park Service.