The Keystone Trails Association will recognize trail stewards, club leaders, and hikers who maintain and protect Pennsylvania’s hiking trails at its annual awards ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 6 in Millersburg.

The event, presented by Pennsylvania American Water, will take place at 5 p.m. at the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, 176 Water Company Road in the Dauphin County community. Pennsylvania Director of Outdoor Recreation Nathan Reigner, will serve as emcee for the celebration that brings together hikers, partners, and supporters from across the state.

Five awards will be presented to individuals and organizations whose work supports Pennsylvania’s trail system.

Mary Patterson will receive the Leave No Trace Award for co-leading KTA’s first Leave No Trace Level One Training and serving as Pennsylvania’s state representative and ambassador for the program.

The Susquehannock Trail Club earned Club of the Year honors for completing a decade-long plan of major trail improvements that included building a 10th shelter, constructing new bridges, and performing extensive maintenance work while continuing to engage the community.

Sharon Southall will receive the Citation Award for Lifetime Achievement for her leadership with the Lebanon Valley Hiking Club and dedication to KTA and Trail Care. Delores “Dee” McGrath will be honored with a Certificate of Achievement for her service to the Chester County Trail Club as vice president, communications lead, hike scheduler, and trail steward.

Tony Barr will receive the Thyra Sperry Volunteer of the Year Award for his work on the Mid State Trail, including leading hikes and outreach efforts in the Everett Region.

“Hiking brings out the best in people,” said Brook Lenker, executive director of KTA. “Hikers invest in exploration, conservation, and service. This event highlights extraordinary accomplishments, and we invite everyone to come and share in the celebration.”

KTA’s Trail Care volunteers contribute thousands of hours annually to building, repairing, and maintaining footpaths across Pennsylvania. Registration for the event closes Wednesday, Dec. 3. More information is available at kta-hike.org.

Generative AI was used to structure and draft this story based on information provided by Keystone Trails Association. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com.