Guiding Principles & Regulations for Wilderness Hiking Passes -- please read before applying.

1) Hikers must stay on designated hiking trails and follow the trail in the direction instructed. Do not take shortcuts, or go off the trail to a cliff’s edge for a special view. The Arc is home to many rare plants – many living in extremely fragile and appealing places such as cliff rims, lookouts and  fallen boulders. Safety notice: As our trails are deliberately narrow in order to be low-impact, it is important that visitors remain in the on the trail so as not to damage wildflowers and ferns growing along the trail. Please be sure to explain these rules to your children and keep them close to you, for the protection of both the preserves and your children – there are many sheer drop-offs and cliffs in our region.

2) Follow switchbacks.  Most trails are narrow and winding. They adapt to the natural contours to minimize erosion, avoiding delicate areas that have rare plants. When switchbacks are obvious, please be stay on the designated trail, guiding children to do likewise.

3) The only traffic permitted on trails is human foot traffic. Please, no pets. Motorized vehicles, horseback riding and bicycles are not permitted on the trails. Seeing eye dogs in harness, and when accompanied and supervised by their designated human partner, are permitted.

4) All visitors are asked to walk and speak quietly on the trails, stepping lightly and keeping voices low so as not to disturb fellow hikers and the wildlife in the preserve.

5) Hunting, trapping and fishing are prohibited. There shall be no collection or disturbance of any artifact, mineral, plant, animal, or animal homes.

6) The Arc of Appalachia Preserve System, including all buildings, is a drug and alcohol-free zone. Smoking is not permitted in or around buildings or on the trails, and is discouraged elsewhere in the Sanctuary.

7) Please pack out all refuse and litter. Helping to pick up litter along the trail and roadsides is encouraged and greatly appreciated.

8) No firewood collecting in the Sanctuary.

9) Please park cars only in designated parking areas and display pass in windshield at all times. Please do not park along side the road except at official trailheads.

Application with Five Day Notice: Permits applications are only available by E-mail. However, if you do not own a computer, you may call 937-365-1936.  Click here for accessing back-country trails through the Appalachian Forest Museum without pre-registration.  If this is your first visit or if it has been some time since you have visited, if you come during open hours, please inquire at the Museum regarding trail recommendations and first time orientation. We will be happy to help you.

HIKING PASS REGISTRATION

Fill out the form and click on the Apply button at the bottom of the page

Questions? Please email: reservations@highlandssanctuary.org  . Further questions, please call our information line at 937-365-1935.