The Boots on the Trail award is presented to volunteers who regularly lead hikes that are well-advertised and promoted to the public as a way of building NCTA membership and support for the trail. Recipients typically lead more than one hike per year, make them interesting by sharing their knowledge or being helpful to […]
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2025 NCTA Staff Introductions
Valerie Bader, Director of Trail Operations Val became interested in trails through the youth corps world, through her work with the Student Conservation Association, Southwest Conservation Corps, and Gulf Coast Conservation Corps. This led to staff roles with the Pacific Crest Trail Association, the Continental Divide Trail Coalition, and eventually, us! Val represents the […]
Waterbar Workshop in Western Pennsylvania
Waterbar Workshop in Western Pennsylvania Water is ubiquitous across the North Country Trail. These eight trail states host thousands of rivers, creeks, ponds, and lakes. Hilly, stream-filled Western Pennsylvania is no exception. Thus, water management is a critical component of trail maintenance. Heavy rains carve up the soil, exposing roots, rocks, and other hazards. Flooding […]