The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club was founded upon, and adheres to, strong principles of conservation and public hiking recreation. These principles are manifest in our Charter and Mission statements:

PATC Charter

The name of the corporation shall be the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, its objectives shall be to build and maintain a portion of the Appalachian trail; to open, develop, extend, and maintain other trails for walkers, mountain climbers, and nature students in wooded and mountainous regions; to construct and maintain camp sites; to open shelters and permanent camps along the Appalachian Trail and other trails; to encourage the use of the trails by organizations and individuals; to collect data of interest to users of these trails concerning scenery, history, geology, botany, forestry, and wildlife; to prepare maps, guidebooks, and camping data; to test hiking, camping, and mountaineering equipment for better enjoyment of the out-of-doors; to educate the public in proper camping methods and safety in hiking, camping, and mountain climbing; and to foster public use appreciation and use of national and state parks and forest and other natural areas.

PATC Mission

The Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, through volunteer efforts, education and advocacy, maintains and protects the Appalachian Trail and nearby lands as well as acquiring and maintaining other trails and related facilities in the Mid-Atlantic region for the enjoyment of present and future hikers.