Millions of people have found physical, mental, and emotional restoration on trails during the pandemic. Thousands of folks will return the favor and care for the magnificent American trail system, helping more people in the U.S. enjoy trails and quality green space. American Hiking Society (AHS) invites the public to celebrate National Trails Day® on June 5th, 2021.
“While the COVID-19 quarantines have put into sharp focus how much our minds and bodies need time outside every day, the trails and parks we value are falling into disrepair, and not everyone has easy access to safe, quality green space,” explains Kate Van Waes, Executive Director of American Hiking Society. “In honor of National Trails Day®, we are encouraging everyone to take American Hiking’s #NationalTrailsDayPledge to help restore trails and parks and build a more inclusive outdoors.”
In addition to taking the #NationalTrailsDayPledge, American Hiking encourages the public to register an in-person or virtual event and join the National Trails Day® digital movement by sharing on social media why access to trails and natural space are vital to them. Tag photos with #NationalTrailsDay and @AmericanHiking to be entered into a photo contest on Instagram with a chance to win a prize package of outdoor gear.
The pledge is a simple way to take action in 2021 to care for trails and advocate for safe, welcoming access to quality green space. American Hiking will provide easy actions people can take; American Hiking also encourages trail enthusiasts, land managers, and supporting organizations to create a unique challenge or custom call-to-action for their community too. Everyone who takes the pledge will be entered to win one of several prize packages.
American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day® is made possible by the generous support of Corporate Sponsors – Athletic Brewing Co., REI Co-Op, Popular Mechanics, and Ben’s Tick and Insect Repellent. Federal Partners include the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Federal Highway Administration, and U.S. Forest Service.
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Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering all to enjoy, share, and preserve the hiking experience.
