Excellent organization & resource for ATA! Detailed information & Trail stewards that give you a lot of information when you ask for it. Great to see the organization grow & resources become more available for the trail. I have section hiked many segments.
I first made contact with the Arizona Trail Association way back in 1999 while planning a thru-hike of the trail and was immediately impressed by their dedication and enthusiasm, both to completing the then-unfinished trail and to helping trail users to prepare for and hike it. In the almost 14 years since that time I have remained close to the Arizona Trail in spirit and have seen its organization give tirelessly of themselves to the cause, often in the face of adversities unique to this part of the natural world, and these efforts have paid enormous dividends. The state of Arizona now boasts one of the premiere long-distance recreation trails in the country, unmatched mile-for-mile in terms of diversity and scenery, and it is bringing communities and people together for a common cause higher than any of us. And all of this thanks to the Arizona Trail Association and its network of supporters. It's a personal honor to be part of this trail community, even from the opposite side of the country as I often am these days.
The Arizona Trail is still a fairly new trail but is destined to be one of the top trails in the United States. It needs to be supported and maintained.
I have volunteered in construction of at least 6 sections of the AzT in Southern Arizona since 2003. I love it when I ride my mountain bike over these sections and i remember the day it was built and how it was built. We continue to do trail maintenance days. Mark Flint is a slave driver, rain or snow, trail building didn't wait!
Twenty-five years ago some hiking folks, led by Dale Shewalter, got together and created the Arizona Trail. While it wasn't quite that simple, it was the start of something incredible. The accomplishments of those individuals live on, and I am proud to be a part of it. At whatever level you choose, involvement with the Arizona Trail Association is richly rewarding.
The ATA has created a trail system that is truly world class and the fact that it constantly is improving is what makes it great. The trail has enabled me to see parts of this state that I might never see. Truly a gem we have in this state. Additionally, the information on the website regarding the various segments is fantastic and has been a valuable resource to me when venturing out.
I feel privileged to have the Arizona Trail within miles of my house. This state treasure definitely has a life-changing impact, especially for those of us that enjoy it regularly. A huge thanks to the Arizona Trail and those that help maintain it!
I started volunteering with the Arizona Trail in 2006. In my opinion, not only is the trail fantastically maintained by an outstanding group of volunteers, it is also well-run on the organization level. I joined the board 2 years ago and can attest to the diligence of each board member in making sure that the Trail will be here tomorrow and for many tomorrows to come. From Southern Arizona's poke-y cactus to the Grand Canyon, the Arizona Trail deserves its National Scenic Trail status. A great organization to be involved in on any level!
The Arizona Trail is truly a gift. It is the first place I go when heading out for some relaxation, great exercise, beauty, and a bit of heaven on earth. As a professional photographer who spends much time with nature the trail is a favorite. The Arizona Trail Association is instrumental in bringing these experiences along the trail to so many.
I rode parts of the AZT by mountain bike and am impressed with this wonderful trail. The website is an excellent resource with all the info anyone would need to follow the AZT from end to end. I am delighted with the efforts and results of the ATA.
I hiked a portion of the trail in 2011. Before the hike, I contacted many trail stewards for advice on different sections of the trail. I remember commenting to my freinds that I could hardly believe how much help I was getting! I've gone on a number of long distance hikes and this hike was one of the easiest to plan due to the amount of help from ATA. Great people. Awesome trail!
The Arizona Trail is an outstanding organization. If you have an interest in exploring Arizona, the AZ Trail offers a variety of trails for equestrians, bicyclist and hikers. The ATA web site hosts valuable information for the trails, people to contact for information and excellent events you can atend.
The Arizona Trail Association has a vision and understands how to see it through and through. They are available and willing to really help you on an project or undertaking that you may want to do. After the experience I have had with the ATA, I consider myself to be a life-time donator to their cause.
Working with the Arizona Trail Association has always been a pleasure. Whether volunteering on trail construction and maintenance projects, or planning my AZT thru-bike adventures, the ATA has always been there in full support. The idea of a cross state trail, built by Arizonans and for the purpose of connecting Arizonans and highlighting our state's natural beauty is a powerful one. It has been amazing to see people rally behind it and make a dream into a reality. Keep up the great work, ATA!