This article looks at learning to become a PATC hike leader from two perspectives: the trainee and the mentor. Below, the article’s authors give their thoughts on leading hikes and why they hike. Hopefully that insight will encourage others to pursue leading hikes for PATC.

The Trainee

My name is Michael DeMarco. I am continuing my training to be a hike leader. I have leadership experience in many forms but have mostly led hikes with my family and friends. I led three backpacking trips on the AT across Georgia, North Carolina, and Maryland. Maryland was a group of five and a dog (he did well). I had first aid and CPR training at my last job and some when I was a scout leader. In addition, I was a leader for a youth group with many outdoor events.

I want to lead day hikes and backpacking trips in Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. I am still working so, weekends and extended weekends are mostly what I am interested in, but I have done 9-10-day backpacking trips. I can do anything from easy to difficult.

I first attended the PATC hike leader training webinar to start learning what it takes to become a hike leader. Then I expressed my interest in completing the requirements. Susan Collins and David Manning were provided as my hike leader mentors. I created Meetup events for the required two hikes, co-led the hikes with David and Susan and completed a PATC hikes report on each. Additionally, I will lead an independent hike as well as complete training for Red Cross First aid (Wilderness First Aid is both acceptable and encouraged). Finally, I studied the PATC Hike Leaders Handbook which covers logistics, emergency planning and the “10 Essentials”. I’m near the finish line!

I have a deep-rooted connection to the land. Whether you are a trail maintainer clearing blowdowns on the Tuscarora Trail or a weekend explorer on the AT, you understand the vital work required to keep the 1,100-mile network open and accessible.

While maintenance crews ensure the trails are physically sound, hike leaders are the bridge that connects the public to these spaces. Leading a hike is a unique way to give back, share your expertise—whether in botany, history, or photography—and advocate for the trails you help preserve. I personally have an interest in photography and sharing many of the natural beauty I capture at a local gallery in the town where I live.

What motivates someone to become a hike leader?

People become hike leaders for a mix of rewards: a deep love for nature and sharing it, the satisfaction of helping others grow and experience the outdoors safely, building personal leadership skills, community involvement, all while enjoying personal benefits like stress relief and connecting with like-minded individuals.

The Mentor

My name is Sue Collins. I have been a PATC Hike Leader for two years. The training to become a PATC Hike Leader includes planning and leading two mentored hikes. Michael, the mentee, has a mission to complete the AT in sections. To capture his enthusiasm and work on my 2026 PATCH hiking goal, we planned a leisurely-paced hike that included a section of the AT at Sky Meadows State Park. My 2026 PATC hiking goal is to offer leisurely-paced and family-friendly hikes.

Why choose a state park for a family-friendly hike? 

Restrooms, accessible parking, park rangers, and in an emergency, you can call the park emergency office. In the winter, state parks tend to plow their roads and parking lots. 

How did we plan this hike? 

We used AllTrails and the Sky Meadows State Park trail map to plan our route. We included the AT, elevation at the front end of the hike, a few beautiful overlooks, and a smooth finish (not rocky). When planning a hike, we also consider the weather. This hike has an open meadow, with no shade, and I prefer to hike this trail in the winter, spring, and late fall. When we mapped the trail using AllTrails, it was 4.7 miles, and after the pre-hike, it was 5.2 miles. 

Sky Meadows State Park is near Paris, Virginia, an hour west of the beltway. The park offers 22 miles of hiking trails, nine miles of biking trails, and 10.5 miles of bridle trails. The park also has a Children’s Discovery Area, an open and safe space for children and families to enjoy the park.

Conclusion

Are you interested in becoming a hike leader? If so, contact PATC at Hikes@PATC.net for more information.

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