SNP Trust was able to purchase the property from the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club and donated it to the park. We funded an archaeological study on the property, as well, required by the National Park Service.
We want to give a special thank you to Chuck MacDonald, a friend and supporter of the park and the Trust, who has provided access to his property for a trail from the new parking lot.
We also funded the Old Rag Overlook Guard Rail Restoration project.
Keeping bears wild starts with keeping them away from human food sources. The most effective way to do that is through bear-proof storage lockers, or “bear boxes.” Right now, only 63% of the park’s campsites have a bear box at the site, leaving nearly 140 campsites without safe food storage. The Trust has committed to making that 100% by funding the purchase and installation of these boxes at every single campsite in Shenandoah National Park.
Each box comes with a $2,000 price tag, and the Trust has set a goal of raising $280,000 to purchase and install the remaining 138 boxes, ensuring that visitors stay safe, and bears stay wild.
