ASHEVILLE, N.C. — For those wanting to learn more about a trek on the Appalachian Trail, now’s your chance.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy will offer 10 classes in North Carolina and Georgia in January and February for people interested in a long-distance hike.

Courses will be taught by Hiker Education Accredited instructors, or individuals who have worked with the ATC to offer a comprehensive workshop that encourages enjoyment and protection of the trail.

The courses will cover planning a long-distance hike on the trail from essential gear to the diversity of the experience. Participants are encouraged to find their own personal approach to hiking the trail while also being well-prepared, responsible hikers.

The schedule includes two classes in Georgia:
Jan. 24, noon to 4 p.m. at the Kennesaw REI store; and Feb. 6, 1 to 5 p.m. at the Atlanta REI store.

Classes in REI stores cost $30 for REI members and $50 for others. They also require pre-registration at www.rei.com/map/store, where you can also get directions.

There are also free classes. All of them are in North Carolina, including:
Jan. 12, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Second Gear Outfitters in Asheville; and Jan. 19, 5-7 p.m. at Mast General Store in Asheville.

There are also REI-based classes in North Carolina.
For more information about the classes, visit www.appalachiantrail.org/events, or contact Chloe de Camara at 828.357.6542 or cdeca mara@appalachiantrail.org.

The ATC was founded in 1925 by volunteers and federal officials to build a continuous path along the Appalachian Mountains. A unit of the National Park System, the trail covers 2,100 miles from Maine to Georgia.