To celebrate National Trails Day, the Forest Service, USDA and various trail and hiking organizations will sponsor a work project on June 7, in the Cherokee National Forest.

National Trails Day is a celebration of trails in the United States which evolved from a Presidential Report in 1987. America’s 200,000 miles of trails allow access to the natural world and our environment. Hiking trails provide the opportunity to breathe fresh air, stay in better physical condition and escape the stress of every day life.

Project organizers have a work trip planned on the John Muir Trail/Benton MacKaye Trail. Volunteers will assit with constructing a new trail segment that will enhance and correct current areas of concern on the existing trail. The work will take place in an area close to Towee Creek and the Hiwassee River in the Ocoee/Hiwassee Ranger District.

Project sponsors include Hiwassee Hiking Club, Cherokee Hiking Club, Chattanooga Hiking Club, Benton MacKaye Trail Association and the Forest Service. Tools and safety gear will be provided. Volunteers should bring plenty of water, lunch and gloves. T-shirts will be awarded to the first 24 participants. There will be door prizes available to everyone who helps make this event a success.

If you are interested in helping to celebrate National Trails Day meet at 9 a.m., on June 7, at the intersection of U.S. Hwy. 411 and Tennessee Highway 30 in the vacant lot across the store. 

For information, contact Steve Biatowas at (423) 338-3328.