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Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64

Franklin, NC 28734

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!

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AARP Events for Franklin

AARP Events for Franklin

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							<span>Franklin</span>,
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												<span>28734</span>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
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							<span>Franklin</span>,
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</h1></header>

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											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
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							<span>Franklin</span>,
							<span>NC</span>
												<span>28734</span>
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										<a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home/conservation/a-t-community-program/at-community-partners/franklin-nc" target="_blank">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</a>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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										<a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home/conservation/a-t-community-program/at-community-partners/franklin-nc" target="_blank">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</a>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
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							<span>Franklin</span>,
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												<span>28734</span>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</h1></header>

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											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
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							<span>Franklin</span>,
							<span>NC</span>
												<span>28734</span>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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							<span>Franklin</span>,
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												<span>28734</span>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</h1></header>

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				<p>
					<div>
											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
											<div>
							<span>Franklin</span>,
							<span>NC</span>
												<span>28734</span>
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										<a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home/conservation/a-t-community-program/at-community-partners/franklin-nc" target="_blank">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</a>
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
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					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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			<p><a class="link-red" href="/franklin-nc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Franklin</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:NCAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NCAARP@aarp.org</a></li>

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											<div>Winding Stair Gap and Highway 64</div>
											<div>
							<span>Franklin</span>,
							<span>NC</span>
												<span>28734</span>
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										<a href="http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home/conservation/a-t-community-program/at-community-partners/franklin-nc" target="_blank">Appalachian Trail Conservancy</a>
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						<p>Mission:The Appalachian Trail Conservancy's mission is to preserve and manage the Appalachian Trail - ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.Connecting Town and Trail:Hikers coming to the junction of Winding Stair Gap and Hwy 64 in Macon County, NC, usually can’t pass up the temptation to hitch a ride 11 miles down the road to the hiker-friendly town of Franklin. Macon County hosts 47 miles of the A.T., and Franklin sits 110 miles north of Springer Mountain, a perfect resupply point between Hiawassee, GA, and the Nantahala Outdoor Center ​in Wesser, NC.Franklin has long been a community that is very supportive of the Appalachian Trail. "When the Nantahala Hiking Club (NHC) informed the town of ATC’s developing Appalachian Trail Community designation program in fall of 2008, it was a no brainer for the town to pursue the designation," said Bill Van Horn, who was president of the NHC at the time, and in 2010, Franklin became the very first Appalachian Trail Community. As an A.T. Community, Franklin has shown its support for the A.T. in a plethora of ways: Franklin LogoLocal business Goshen Timber Frame donated a shelter to the A.T. Franklin’s new town logo was modified to include the A.T. white blazeCreation of the Franklin Hiker Services brochure and mapLocal TTEC alumni teach about the A.T. in their classroomsHosting the annual April Fools Trail Days festivalTown support for the Nantahala Hiking Club, the local A.T. maintaining club.Plan Your Visit:Voted ​the Top Small Town for Adventure by Blue Ridge Outdoors in 2015 and 2016, Franklin is known for its wealth of natural beauty. Magnificent waterfalls, mountain vistas, and gorgeous trails all await hikers in Franklin, and it is also home to many opportunities for anglers and cyclists. Franklin is steeped in the traditions of mountain music and crafts as well, and at just over two hours from cities like Atlanta, Knoxville, and Greenville, it's a great place to take a relaxing mountain getaway. Whether you're coming for PumpkinFest in October or summer's weekly concert series Pickin' on the Square, there's never a bad time to visit Franklin!</p>		</div>
		

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		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Franklin</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Franklin</h2>
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										<h3 class="topic">Featured Event</h3>
					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ncsenior-planet-tips-for-being-news-savvy-online-nc-011025-64nplvjqqw8.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-TIPS-FOR-BEING-NEWS-SAVVY-ONLINE">Tips for being news savvy online</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/franklin-nc/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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<div aria-hidden="true" class="aarpe-ad-wrapper">
                    
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	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
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		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
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		<a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FRANKLIN-NC">Join AARP</a>
		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-FRANKLIN-NC">Renew</a> or 
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<h2>Contact AARP <br />in Franklin</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:NCAARP@aarp.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NCAARP@aarp.org</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/north-carolina/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP North Carolina</a></li>

<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="http://states.aarp.org/aarp-north-carolina-contact-information/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-ASHEVILLE-NC-FRANKLIN-NC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>

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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/AARPNC" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Facebook"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/facebook-dreamstale25.png" alt="Facebook icon" title="Facebook icon"></a>&nbsp;&nbsp;
<a href="https://twitter.com/AARPmountainnc" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Twitter"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/responsive/icons/48/x-logo-black.png" alt="Twitter icon" title="Twitter icon"></a>
&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/https://www.instagram.com/aarpmountainnc//" target="_blank" rel="noopener" aria-label="Open Instagram"><img src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/icon-ig.png" alt="Instagram icon" title="Instagram icon" style="height: 49px;"></a>

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include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
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Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
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