Rausch Gap Shelter Restoration Project

"There is
an intense but simple thrill
in setting off in the morning
on a mountain trail, knowing
that everything you need
is on your back.
It is a confidence in having
left the inessentials behind
and of entering a world
of natural beauty
that has not been violated,
where money has no value, and possessions are a dead weight.
The person with the fewest possessions is the freest.
Thoreau was right."
PAUL THEROUX
The Happy Isles of Oceania: Paddling the Pacific, 1992

Rausch Gap Shelter Rebuild Project 2011-2012

Be a part of this exciting project that will leave a legacy of comforting shelter for AT through-hikers for many decades to come!

The Appalachian Trail shelters provide through-hikers refuge from the elements. The BMECC maintains 8 shelters, and some require serious maintenance at times. The Rausch Gap Shelter was built in 1973 within State Game lands tract #211. It includes a privy built in 2005. The shelter was scheduled for a roof replacement this year but, upon starting the work, it was discovered that too many of the logs had rotted and need to be replaced. As a result, a total rebuild project is underway. The work is being done entirely by volunteers at the BMECC Rentschler Arboretum for ease of accessibility and, when complete, the shelter will be transported to its current location on state game lands.

This project is a rare opportunity to witness, learn, and participate in woodsmanship and craftsmanship from our pioneering past (with some "modern" assistance!). If you have a few hours to spare on a weekend, please check the schedule of events for work times. We can use your help, regardless of your skill or experience level!

Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club, P. O. Box 14982, Reading, Pennsylvania 19612-4982, USA, info@bmecc.org