Each year, KTA’s Trail Care volunteers contribute thousands of hours to building, repairing, and caring for footpaths across the Commonwealth-- and this celebration shines a spotlight on the individuals that make that work possible.
The ceremony also honors those who have served KTA in other important ways, plus hikers of all ages from across the state who have achieved notable hiking feats.
This year’s KTA Hiking Awards and Volunteer Celebration - presented by Pennsylvania American Water - will be held at the inspiring Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art, located at 176 Water Company Road in Millersburg, PA, beginning at 5:00 p.m.
The evening brings together hikers, partners, and supporters statewide to recognize the people who elevate Pennsylvania’s trails through stewardship, education, leadership, and a profound love of hiking.
“We are thrilled to bring our annual awards celebration to the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art and appreciative to have Pennsylvania American Water as our title sponsor,” said Brook Lenker, Executive Director of KTA. “Hiking brings out the best in people. Hikers invest in exploration, conservation, and service. This event highlights extraordinary accomplishments, and we invite everyone to come and share in the celebration. Our emcee, Dr. Nathan Reigner - PA’s Director of Outdoor Recreation - adds extra poignancy to this special night.”
2025 KTA Service Award Honorees
This year’s honorees are--
-- Leave No Trace Award – Mary Patterson: Mary Patterson is honored for her outstanding commitment to outdoor ethics, co-leading KTA’s first Leave No Trace Level One Training and serving as Pennsylvania’s State Representative of the program and a dedicated Leave No Trace Ambassador.
-- KTA Club of the Year – Susquehannock Trail Club: The Susquehannock Trail Club is recognized for completing its decade-long plan of major trail improvements—including a tenth shelter, new bridges, and extensive maintenance—while sustaining a thriving hiking, stewardship, and community engagement program.
-- KTA Citation Award for Lifetime Achievement – Sharon Southhall: Sharon Southall receives the Lifetime Achievement Award for her decades of leadership with the Lebanon Valley Hiking Club and long-standing dedication to KTA, Trail Care, and strengthening Pennsylvania’s hiking community.
-- KTA Certificate of Achievement – Delores “Dee” McGrath: Dee McGrath is celebrated for her exceptional service to the Chester County Trail Club as Vice President, communications lead, hike scheduler, trail steward, and a welcoming, reliable presence on countless outings.
-- Thyra Sperry Volunteer of the Year Award – Tony Barr: Tony Barr is honored for his transformative leadership on the Mid State Trail—elevating the Everett Region, leading major KTA hikes and outreach efforts, and exemplifying dedication as a trail manager, educator, and outdoor enthusiast.
Join The Celebration
Visit the KTA Hiking Awards and Volunteer Celebration webpage for information on how you can join the celebration. Registration closes December 3.
The Keystone Trails Association offers a robust Trail Care program with volunteer opportunities available on PA trails, serves as the statewide voice of the hiking trail community and trail advocate in PA’s capital, and offers a wealth of hiking opportunities throughout the year that both long-time hikers and the next generation of hikers can enjoy together.
[Posted: November 24, 2025] PA Environment Digest
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