Embedded Files
Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 11, 2026
2026 Rocksylvania Pennsylvania Appalachian Trail Kickoff
Your Appalachian Trail Season Begins in Pennsylvania !
Bernville, PA — The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club (BMECC), in partnership with Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, is pleased to announce the second annual Rocksylvania Pennsylvania Appalachian Trail Kickoff , taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. This expanded spring outdoor education and community engagement event will bring together hikers, backpackers, conservation partners, and outdoor enthusiasts for a day focused on trail stewardship, safety, accessibility, connection, and fellowship. Whether visiting the Appalachian Trail for the first time or preparing for a section or thru-hike, participants will find practical resources, expert guidance, and hands-on learning to help them approach the trail with confidence.
The event will feature a series of staffed, interactive stations designed to help hikers prepare for the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania and beyond. Participants will have access to trail planning resources such as maps, guidebooks, and information from regional hiking clubs, along with hands-on trail safety and preparedness support including gear layouts, pack shakedowns, and guidance on Rocksylvania’s backpacking conditions. Leave No Trace principles will be integrated throughout the event, reinforcing responsible trail use and long-term stewardship.
A dedicated “Trail for All” station will highlight inclusive access, physical readiness, and mental well-being on the trail, with outreach to veteran and adaptive hiking communities. Additional displays will showcase Hawk Mountain Sanctuary’s role in conservation and outdoor education, as well as essential Appalachian Trail support services such as hostels, shuttles, and long-distance hiking logistics. Attendees can register as Appalachian Trail hikers, receive hang tags, participate in Leave No Trace training, and connect directly with experienced volunteers.
“This event is about meeting people where they are on their hiking journey—whether they’re brand new to the trail or seasoned backpackers,” said Howard Reid, BMECC volunteer leader. “It’s also about strengthening the sense of community and shared responsibility that keeps our trails healthy and welcoming for everyone.”
Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with BMECC and other local hiking clubs, enjoy a bake sale and soda station, and explore additional resources on topics such as hiking for mental health and day-planning strategies to help maximize time and enjoyment on the trail.
The 2026 Rocksylvania Appalachian Trail Kickoff will take place from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Education Building, located at 1518 Hawk Mountain Road, Kempton, PA 19529. The event is free and open to the public, and hikers of all experience levels—from beginners to seasoned thru-hikers—are encouraged to attend.
Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club
The Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club (BMECC) is a dedicated organization focused on promoting outdoor recreation, conservation, and stewardship of the Appalachian Trail in Pennsylvania. For over 90 years, BMECC has played a key role in maintaining and preserving the trail, offering support to hikers, and fostering a community of outdoor enthusiasts. The club’s commitment to the trail and its surroundings ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and challenge of the Appalachian Trail.
Media Contact:
Howard Reid
Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club
PA Appalachian Trail Kickoff Creator
hreid@bmecc.org
610-420-8194
Page updated
Report abuse