March 10, 2017

Volunteers installed the first “stretch-limo” version of the iconic ATA gates in a remote location south of Ripsey Wash. BLM requested a wire vehicle gate be replaced so ATA commissioned the distinctive metal gate with the AZT emblem, which provides reassurance to trail users that they are on the correct route as well as a permanent, easy-to-operate gate. A full crew turned out for a beautiful spring day on the AZT. The gate was barely complete when a bouncing silver orb was observed approaching through the chaparral. “Hedgehog,”” a young lady from Germany making her way from Mexico to Utah, was hiking under a light-weight umbrella and came into the work site just in time to share chips and soda with the crew. Another fine day on the AZT!