Ignik Evolves its Plug-and-Play Propane Firepit Line

Awarding-winning outdoor heating brand Ignik proudly announces the evolution of its FireCan line with the all-new FireCan Deluxe. With its dual-action fuel output and removable grill, users now have the option for easy, portable outdoor cooking in addition to a warm, safe campfire anywhere they go.

With the same ammo can design as its predecessor, the FireCan Deluxe features an all-stainless steel construction for optimal durability. Packed with all the ease, safety, and portability of the original FireCan, FireCan Deluxe includes a grease tray under the can, a Flame Adjustment knob for controlling the cook temperatures, and a removable grill insert for clean outdoor cooking. The firepit and grill also includes a new dual-action fuel output designed with a quick attachment for ‘Grill Mode’ and ‘Fire Pit Mode.’ While in Grill Mode, the FireCan Deluxe emits smaller and hotter blue flames which allow for safe, efficient, and more complete fuel combustion that’s optimized for cooking. Fire Pit Mode produces larger orange flames, which offer a true campfire experience. When done using Grill Mode, users can simply remove the grill insert and switch over to Fire Pit Mode to enjoy a contained and safe campfire. With its foldable legs, FireCan Deluxe packs away like a breeze and is ideal for grilling at the beach or campsite, while tailgating, and is perfect for overlanding adventures.

“We are really excited about the FireCan Deluxe and its unique two-burner design, which allows us to safely pack a ton of functionality into such a small package,” says Peter Pontano, Ignik’s Marketing and Product Development Director. “On top of that (rather underneath), the separate quick-connect inputs are tucked into either side of the can, making it super easy to set up in the right ‘mode’ and even more low profile than the original FireCan. This truly is the next generation of outdoor heating and cooking.”

The FireCan Deluxe is available now at ignik.com and other retailers and easily hooks up to Ignik’s refillable fuel options or any propane source. MSRP: $299.99. For more information, please contact stacy@darbycommunications.com.

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About Ignik

Our journey started on a family sailboat in the Arctic, where we saw the impact of climate change and human jetsam on the landscapes we love. We decided to “be the change” by creating products that actually work—and work for the planet. Today Ignik makes high-quality, environmentally thoughtful heating products for the wilderness. We enable more folks to get outside earlier and remain outside longer. Ignik is a proud member of 1% for the Planet. For more information, visit Ignik.com.

    VSSL Launches New Collection Ahead of Summer Adventures

    With new products and significant updates to its existing lines, VSSL resolidifies itself as a leader in backcountry preparedness

    ABBOTSFORD, British Columbia – March 1, 2023 – VSSL, creator of premium gear that enables self-reliance in the outdoors, today introduced a multitude of new products to its Outdoor Essentials Collection, including the Camp Supplies II, Camp Supplies Stash Light, Mini Stash Light, and Mini Stash Speaker. Across the Provisions Collection, VSSL is also launching an extension of the Insulated Flask series, which launched with the pinnacle Insulated Flask + Speaker in December. The series will now be accompanied by the Insulated Flask and Insulated Flask + Light, both available in black.   

    “Camping season is nearly here – and what better way to celebrate than launching new products to keep our fans safe and prepared,” said Todd Weimer, founder of VSSL. “From the reinvigoration of our Camp Supplies kit to new offerings in our Stash series and more, we’re thrilled to offer more peace of mind than ever before.”

    VSSL’s new launches include:

    • Camp Supplies II (MSRP: $145) – A reinvention of the gear kit that started it all – a water-resistant, indestructible military-grade aluminum cylinder paired with an oil-based compass cap and four-mode LED Lantern, packed with over 50 pieces of essential gear, including VSSL’s best-selling Fire Striker Tin. The ultimate tool for outdoor preparedness so users can take on adventures with confidence.
    • Camp Supplies Stash Light (MSRP: $100) – A must-have for all outdoor enthusiasts. With military-grade aluminum and a water-resistant design, this compact kit packs two critical camping essentials – VSSL’s exclusive Fire Striker Tin and multi-purpose adventure tape – with four additional empty aluminum refill tins so consumers can personalize based on the supplies they need, endcapped with a Split-Flip Carabiner top and a four-mode LED lantern.
    • Mini Stash Light (MSRP: $80 – A compact, packable partner for any adventure. Combining water-resistant, indestructible military-grade aluminum materials with carabiner and LED lantern endcaps, the Mini Stash Light includes two empty aluminum refill tins in two sizes to allow users to customize the kit per their needs.
    • Mini Stash Speaker (MSRP: $110) – A powerful audio punch in a compact, packable size. Outfitted with the crystal-clear sound of a True Wireless Speaqua Bluetooth® Speaker, with durable military-grade aluminum construction and two empty, refillable aluminum tins for customization, the Mini Stash Speaker is for anyone who wants to take their music (and a few essentials) wherever they go.
    • Insulated Flask (MSRP: $85) – Built with military-grade aluminum and stainless steel, the Insulated Flask is engineered to fuel adventures for generations to come. A double-walled, vacuum-sealed vessel keeps up to eight ounces of beverage cold for up to 10 hours or hot for up to five hours. Ready to be enjoyed on the trail, at the campsite or anywhere users may roam, the patent-pending leak-proof double-port drinking cap makes for easy sipping. Celebrate the moments in between with the VSSL Insulated Flask.
    • Insulated Flask + Light (MSRP: $120) – Ready to go all night, the Insulated Flask + Light is an always-on icon for the outdoors. Engineered for clarity in the darkness, a four-mode LED Lantern illuminates with precision while seamlessly integrating into a double-wall eight-ounce Insulated Flask. Durable, water-resistant and ready for anything, this combo is made to travel.

    Whether users are looking for a better way to stay prepared in the backcountry or just want to have peace of mind for an everyday carry solution, VSSL has something for everyone.

    VSSL’s new products are available at select retailers and online at www.vsslgear.com.

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    About VSSL
    VSSL makes integrated gear systems designed for the outdoors. We’re experts in self-sufficiency and believe good things come to those who are ready. Our essential supplies, purpose-built equipment and compact storage solutions are housed in durable vessels – field-tested in Canada and made to last.

      Nomadix Repurposed Over 16,900,000 Plastic Bottles in 2022 According to Recently Released Social Purpose Corporation Report

      Nomadix, a social purpose corporation and makers of The Only Towel You Need®, made from post-consumer recycled plastics, announced today the results of its 2022 Social Purpose Corporation Report. Notable 2022 accomplishments include: diverting more than 16,900,000 plastic bottles from landfills, preventing more than 2,300,000 kilograms of CO2 from entering the atmosphere, saving more than 380,000,000 gallons of wastewater, and conserving more than 2,800,000 kilowatts of energy.

      “Reimagining the way textiles are made is no small feat, but the health and sustainability of our planet will continue to be our number one priority,” said co-founder and CEO of Nomadix, Zack Helminiak. “We are paving a path toward a more sustainable future and are proud of the progress we accomplished in 2022.”

      In addition, the report details progress specific to Nomadix’s 2022 Climate Commitment including:

      • A decrease in all airfreight by 45% in 2022 from 89 tco2e to 56 tco2e
      • A savings of more than 17 kilowatts in emissions by switching all headquarter energy usage to 50% solar energy
      • Phased out 90% of virgin plastic by replacing it with rPET or recycled and FSC certified paper goods

      Recognizing the importance of building community to advance sustainability, Nomadix’s network of partner organizations in 2022 included:

      • Brave Trails: Welcomed over 400 LGBTQ+ youth and purchased land to build their camp and community space.
      • 1% For the Planet: Members donated over $66 million to environmental solutions.
      • The Ecology Center: Donated 56,000 pounds of food to local families facing food insecurity.
      • The Conservation Alliance: Permanently protected over 178,000 acres of land and river miles
      • The Billfish Foundation: Worked worldwide to advance the conservation of billfish and other species.
      • Surfrider Foundation: Achieved 775 victories concerning plastic pollution, ocean protection, clean water, and more.

      Nomadix expanded its product offerings in 2022 with the Bandana Towel and Puffer Blanket, both made from post-consumer, recycled materials to further reduce its impact on the planet. To see the brand’s entire product line or for more information about its Social Purpose Corporation Report, visit nomadix.co.

       

      ABOUT NOMADIX
      California-based Nomadix launched in 2015 with The Only Towel You Need® – a multi-purpose towel that performs for any activity, including travel, yoga, boating, and at the beach. Nomadix understands that the environmental footprint of the products people buy will have an impact on the planet that lasts longer than we will. A commitment to discovering durable, multi-purpose, responsibly manufactured solutions that will leave the planet better than we found it is part of its ethos – Own less. Do more. Nomadix is a member of 1% for The Planet and is Climate Neutral Certified. Today, Nomadix is carried in major retailers in the United States, including REI, West Marine and Boardriders, and is distributed in 31 countries around the world. Visit www.nomadix.co for more information.

        Life Time and OZ Brands Announce $65,000 Prize Purse for Little Sugar MTB

        Life Time (NYSE: LTH), the nation’s premier healthy lifestyle brand and owner and producer of 30 premier athletic events, announces a $65,000 total prize purse for the Life Time Little Sugar MTB presented by Mazda, set to debut Oct. 15 in Northwest Arkansas. 

        Life Time and OZ Brands have combined efforts to announce a $65,000 prize purse, a notable increase from the previously announced $25,000 prize purse, making it the biggest offering in a single day cycling event in the United States. The increased prize–along with other efforts such as the Life Time Grand Prix presented by Mazda–further affirms Life Time’s commitment to supporting elite cycling and growing cycling fandom and participation in the United States. 

        The prize purse will be split evenly between the elite female and elite male fields. The breakdown will be as follows:

        1st Place: $12,000

        2nd Place: $8,500

        3rd Place: $6,000

        4th Place: $4,000

        5th Place: $2,000

        “We believe OZ is an access point for endless adventure. Our partnership with Life Time elevates Northwest Arkansas and OZ as a global destination for unique outdoor experiences,” said Scott King of OZ Brands. “The Big Sugar Classic Cycling Festival and Little Sugar MTB will inspire the next generation of cyclists and adventure seekers right here in our own backyard.”

        “We are incredibly proud to have the privilege of working with OZ Brands to provide this unique opportunity for athletes,” said Kimo Seymour, President of Life Time Events and Media. “Not only will Little Sugar MTB be technically challenging for amateur and recreational riders, but the pros will be super focused on the end of season opportunity to earn a significant pay day.” 

        Northwest Arkansas’ rich mountain bike culture, paired with the prize purse, have already inspired numerous elite mountain bikers to confirm that they will race Little Sugar MTB, including 2022 Life Time Grand Prix champion Haley Smith, Andrew L’Esperance, Cole Paton, Crystal Anthony, Savilia Blunk, Taylor Lideen, and Emily Newsom. With the Life Time Grand Prix finale, Big Sugar Gravel, taking place the following weekend, even more elite athletes are expected to commit to Little Sugar MTB. 

        Life Time Little Sugar MTB presented by Mazda is a part of the week-long Big Sugar Classic cycling festival in October, which includes Life Time Big Sugar Gravel presented by Mazda, now heading into its third year. The festival is a world-class event in a region with a distinct and passionate cycling culture, which has become a hub for national and international cycling events.

        The accessibility and diversity of the trail network in Northwest Arkansas has created a destination for cyclists from across the globe. OZ Brands and Life Time are a perfect pairing to help bring professional cyclists and outdoor adventurers to the MTB Capital of the world™.

        To learn more about the Big Sugar Classic Cycling Festival, please visit: www.bigsugarclassic.com. Registration for both Little Sugar MTB presented by Mazda and Big Sugar Gravel presented by Mazda opens today, March 1, 2023 at 6pm CST.

        The Life Time Big Sugar Classic is owned and produced by Life Time, the premier healthy lifestyle brand. It is among more than 25 premier athletic events owned by the company including the Stages Cycling Leadville Trail 100 MTB, the Life Time Miami Marathon and Garmin Unbound Gravel presented by Craft. To view and learn more about Life Time athletic events, visit: lifetime.life/athletic-events

        About Life Time®, Inc.

        Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of more than 160 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The Company’s healthy way of life communities and ecosystem address all aspects of healthy living, healthy aging and healthy entertainment for people 90 days to 90+ years old. Supported by a team of more than 30,000 dedicated professionals, Life Time is committed to providing the best programs and experiences through its clubs, iconic athletic events and comprehensive digital platform.

        About OZ Brands

        OZ Brands is a collection of companies that inspire exploration of Northwest Arkansas. Made up of OZ Art, OZ Trails and Fly OZ, OZ Brands brings people the best of the heart of the region. Whether riding the unique Ozark trails, perusing the halls of world class art museums or taking to the sky for a backcountry adventure, there’s nothing quite like the land of OZ. https://www.ozbrands.us/

        Matchstick Productions and Elevation Hotel Unveil New Lounge Concept at the Base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort

        Experiential partnership is led by the award-winning production company and space will feature every MSP movie poster ever made, vintage cameras and state-of-the-art AV for world premiere film screenings

        Elevation Hotel & Spa – the only ski-in, ski-out resort located at the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort – is partnering with the award-winning production company, Matchstick Productions (MSP), to debut a new lounge concept called the Matchstick Lounge. Opening to the public in early March 2023, the new Matchstick Lounge celebrates the iconic Crested Butte-based ski film brand as well as Crested Butte’s longtime reputation for being one of the leading ski destinations in the world. 

        Matchstick Productions is the world’s most awarded ski film brand and fully equipped production boutique. Inspired by MSP’s deep history in action sports and its cutting edge content, the new lounge at the Elevation Hotel will feature 30 years of MSP film posters, vintage cameras, skis and behind-the-scenes production photos; in addition to a pool table, darts and state-of-the-art AV for sporting events, film screenings and world premieres. 

        “For more than 30 years, the crew at Matchstick Productions has been proud to call Crested Butte home,” says Murray Wais, Executive Producer and Director at Matchstick Productions. “We are excited to partner with Elevation to open a space where we can celebrate the sports we love, while sharing in the passion of film. We hope everyone can come to have a drink, play some pool and watch some shred flicks or other events. It’s going to be a really cool place and I know our team will be hanging out there. It’s the perfect place to hang after skiing or biking.”

        An immersive destination for locals and visitors, MSP and Elevation will host film screenings, athlete signings, and industry and resort parties throughout the year. Food and beverage service will be available from José Crested Butte and the billy barr, both of which are located in Elevation Hotel & Spa. José offers a selection of regional Mexican-inspired dishes, cocktails and extensive tequila collection. billy barr offers a range of Crested Butte-inspired items including paninis and sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie boards, and craft cocktails.  

        “We’re thrilled to launch this project in partnership with our friends at Matchstick Productions,” says Nick Klaus, managing director for Elevation Hotel & Spa. “With the hotel’s proximity to the lifts, we know this will become a sought-after destination for skiers and mountain bikers to gather and immerse themselves in the incredible content that MSP is known for.”

        Matchstick Lounge is one of many projects Elevation has launched in an effort to create inspiring gathering spaces at the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, where locals and visitors alike can celebrate the Crested Butte community and its unique culture. 

        About Elevation Hotel & Spa 

        Elevation Hotel & Spa is a ski-in/ski-out hotel destination located at the base of Mt. Crested Butte, Colorado. The 262-unit hotel reflects a combination of outdoor adventure, mountain charm and contemporary design offering the perfect choice for travelers seeking enriching experiences and hospitality excellence. The property features a full-service spa, heated indoor pool, three hot tubs, and José Crested Butte, a full-service, slope-side restaurant which offers regional Mexican-inspired dishes, cocktails and an extensive tequila collection. José Crested Butte opened in August 2022 and is the second location for the José brand, which has its first location in Dallas. Fore more information, visit www.elevationresort.com

        About Matchstick Productions

        Founded in Crested Butte Colorado in 1993, Matchstick Productions produces films to inspire a love for the outdoors through authentic storytelling. From their home on the western slope in the Rocky Mountains the filmmakers, producers, athletes have built Matchick Productions into an iconic worldwide brand. For more information about Matchstick Productions, visit www.matchstickpro.com.  

        About Matchstick Lounge

        The Matchstick Lounge serves as an immersive hospitality and entertainment destination for passionate skiers, mountain bikers, and adventure seekers of all kinds. The new lounge, located in the Elevation Hotel & Spa, features 30 years of MSP film posters, vintage cameras, skis and behind-the-scenes production photos; in addition to a pool table, darts and state-of-the-art AV for sporting events, film screenings and world premieres. As part of a dynamic partnership, MSP and Elevation will host film screenings, athlete-driven events and signings, and industry and resort parties throughout the year. Food and beverage service will be provided by the hotel’s two main dining destinations — the billy barr and José Crested Butte. For more information, please visit www.elevationresort.com

         

         

         

          Outdoor Industry Veteran, Brett Cardamone, Appointed as Trango’s New Brand Manager

          Lafayette, CO (March 1st, 2023)- Trango, the award-winning manufacturer and international distributor of technical climbing equipment, announced the appointment of Brett Cardamone as Brand Manager. 

           

          Cardamone brings 20 years of experience of creative, brand development, and marketing to Trango. Cardamone was Executive Creative Director at Five Ten for 14 years (2004-2018), and helped the brand navigate to, and through, its acquisition by adidas. During his tenure at Five Ten, Cardamone oversaw digital design, creative direction, footwear design, and marketing. Cardamone has established himself as a leader in creating compelling global brand stories. He is a valuable addition to the Trango team. Since his departure from Five Ten, Cardamone has spent the past few years as a brand consultant and footwear designer.

           

          With his extensive history in the climbing community and significant background with creating award-winning climbing products, Cardamone is excited to again be working with an independent athlete-and-product driven brand.  “I’m super psyched to be back with a core climbing company,” says Cardamone. “Trango gets that climbers need high-quality hardwear and holds that are purpose built. From beginners to the most experienced core user, Trango connects with an incredibly wide range of athletes. In addition to fostering a wide-reaching brand awareness, our goal is to deliver consistent and creative products that inspire ALL climbers to reach their goals at all ability levels and disciplines.” 

           

          “We’re very pleased to welcome Brett to the Trango team,” said Chris Klinke, President of Trango. “Brett brings an immense amount of experience and valuable insight to Trango as we continue to grow as one unified brand of products that embrace every aspect of climbing. His passion for innovation, creativity and authenticity will no doubt aid in bringing Trango to the next level.”

           

           

          About Trango
          Trango has been designing climbing gear in the Front Range since 1991 for sport, trad, gym, bouldering, and alpine climbers and remains passionate about creating innovative, solution-oriented products that help climbers achieve the next level in the sport. Beyond award-winning climbing equipment, Trango is also the U.S. distributor for Spanish rock-climbing shoe company Tenaya.

            Fleet Feet Launches “#ReasonsWeRun” Brand Campaign

            Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores, today announced the launch of its new “#ReasonsWeRun” brand campaign, a cross-channel effort highlighting people who decide to start running, and the positive effects it has on their lives.   

            Developed in partnership with creative agency MMGY Origin,  the “#ReasonsWeRun” campaign is Fleet Feet’s largest brand campaign to date with a mix of paid and organic content,  a fully integrated media plan and store-specific assets designed to bring the campaign to life locally.  

            “Fleet Feet believes that running has the power to change lives. At the same time, we know how intimidating it can be to take the first step,” says Ashley Arnold, director of brand marketing for Fleet Feet. “The campaign showcases the true impact running has on our lives through inspiring and relatable stories of our real customers, and the communities they find as a result. We view #ReasonsWeRun as an invitation to share those stories and encourage everyone to keep moving.”  

            “Fleet Feet has an incredibly strong dedication to its community of runners,” says Danielle Kristmanson, partner and executive creative director at MMGY Origin. “When we landed on the idea of telling stories about the reasons people run, their team pressed us to tap that community directly. The real Fleet Feet customers we met during the process and their true stories that were documented for the campaign were an inspiration to all of us.” 

            Working with media agency Goodway Group on a distribution strategy, “#ReasonsWeRun” will initially launch in March through the Spotify Ad Network. Additional spots and in-depth storytelling will run across CTV, display advertising, online video and Fleet Feet’s social media channels, complimenting in-store assets and displays throughout the spring and summer.  

            For more than 46 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge and empowerment.  

            The brand campaign comes on the heels of recent acquisitions, including JackRabbit  and Marathon Sports. JackRabbit stores have folded into the Fleet Feet brand while Marathon Sports remains a wholly owned subsidiary of Fleet Feet. Fleet Feet supports more than five million customers across 250 locally owned and operated stores. 

            To view the full length #ReasonsWeRun video, click here 

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            About Fleet Feet  

            Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 250 locations in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and was recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter List and Inc.’s Best in Business List. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.  

            About MMGY Origin 

            MMGY Origin is an outdoor-focused, digitally-driven creative, content and marketing agency. Founded more than 20 years ago, the agency has worked with a multitude of prominent outdoor brands such as Whistler Blackcomb, L.L.Bean, lululemon, Smartwool, The North Face, and many more. With offices in Montreal and Whistler, as well as a US subsidiary based in Vermont, MMGY Origin provides a bilingual suite of capabilities to the outdoor brands it helps succeed and grow in both Canada and the US. Subscribe to MMGY Origin’s “Insights On The Outdoors” monthly newsletter at originoutside.com/newsletter-sign-up. 

              Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Hosts Expert Roundtable to Discuss Importance of Nation’s Trails in Building Community, Encouraging People to Be Active Outside, and Inspiring Action for the Planet

              CDC, EARTHDAY.org and Women @ Work to join roundtable discussion focused on strategies for being active outside in ways that promote healthy people, planet and communities.

               Experts to provide insight and resources to inform stories ahead of tenth annual Celebrate Trails Day and Earth Day, both recognized on April 22.

               WASHINGTON, DC—In anticipation of the spring season and the opportunity for millions of Americans to spend more time being active outdoors, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation’s largest trail advocacy organization, is hosting a media roundtable on March 2 at 1 p.m. Eastern, with experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), EARTHDAY.org, and the Pittsburgh-based cycling club, Women @ Work.

              The virtual event will feature expert advice and resources to inform stories this spring and summer about being active outside, addressing the importance of places and programming for encouraging people to be physically active, while building community and creating opportunities to take individual climate action by swapping car trips for a short walk or bike ride.

              The event will offer tips and resources for covering the outdoor trails season ahead of Celebrate Trails Day and Earth Day, which align this year on Saturday, Apr. 22.  For the last decade, Celebrate Trails Day has been the nation’s annual spring celebration of America’s trails and a motivator for people to be active. In 2022, participants reported more than 65 minutes being physically active outside on the trail, which contributed significantly to the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity adults should get each week. Combined, participants logged over 812,000 minutes of physical activity on Celebrate Trails Day. In addition, one quarter (24%) of participants reported swapping a short car trip for a walk or a bike ride to their destination, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from personal vehicles.

              WHAT:        

              “Building Community, Inspiring Climate Action and Encouraging Physical Activity through Trails”

               A roundtable discussion followed by Q&A with reporters. Speakers will address:

              • Why national days of action like Celebrate Trails Day and Earth Day are important motivators for people and communities, demonstrating consumer demand for safe spaces to walk, bike and be active outside.
              • The latest data on trail use, based on national user counts and a recent national poll revealing perceptions of trails, physical activity and interest in getting around more on foot and by bike.
              • Tips for getting outside on trails, how to #RecreateResponsibly, and what it takes to swap a car trip for a trail trip.
              • Insights into how trails are part of the EARTHDAY.ORG call to “Invest in the Planet.”

               WHEN:         Mar. 2, 2023, 1 p.m. Eastern

               WHERE:       Please register here. Registrations are allowed until the start of the event.

               WHO:          

              Brandi Horton, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

              Evan Raskin, EARTHDAY.ORG

              Ken Rose, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

              Robin Woods, Women at Work Cycling Club, Pittsburgh

              Celebrate Trails Day comes this year at time of unprecedented opportunity for trails, walking and biking. Nationwide, trail use increased on average 9.5% between 2022 and 2021, and 45% between 2022 and 2019—nearly at the record levels set in 2020, demonstrating enduring demand for trails across the country. A recent opinion poll conducted by RTC found that a majority of respondents (62%) report using trails once a week or less, but 24% say they’re using trails more than they did in the past year, which is particularly true for Black (35%) and Latino (27%) trail users. In addition, many Americans say they’re interested in using trails more than they do now—26% say a lot more and 36% say a little more.

              The majority of trips taken in this country are within a 20-minute bike ride or less, more than one in four trips are within a 20-minute walk or less, and 11.5% of all trips are made by walking and biking. By swapping more of these trips from car trips to walking or biking, the U.S. economy could save more than $22 billion annually and save 54 million tons of CO2 annually.

              The CDC reports that only about 1 in 4 adults fully meet the physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities and that increasing our physical activity is one of the best things we can do for our health. Findings from the Community Preventive Services Task Force recommends parks, trails, and greenways as infrastructure interventions that increase physical activity. These improvements, however, need to be combined with community engagement to increase awareness, expand programs and enhance access. Active People, Healthy Nation is a national initiative led by the CDC to help 27 million Americans become more physically active by 2027 with resources to help more people meet the physical activity guidelines.

              To find creative ideas for getting outside, first-person stories of the impact of trails, photo and video content for use with credit to RTC, and direct access to RTC’s free trail-finder website and app, TrailLink.com, reporters are encouraged to visit RTC’s Celebrate Trails Day website.

              The public can visit railstotrails.org/celebratetrails and follow #CelebrateTrails on social media for information about Celebrate Trails Day, to find events, and to win prizes.

              Athletic Brewing Co. is the premiere sponsor of Celebrate Trails Day. Celebrate Trails Day is supported by the CDC’s “Active People, Healthy Nation” initiative, “Parks for All” championed by Hydro Flask, Warm Peet, the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, Mirrycle, EARTHDAY.ORG, and Sports Backers

              Celebrate Trails Day is the annual celebration of the spring trail season, recognized on the fourth Saturday in April. The national celebration is organized by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation’s largest trails organization—with a grassroots community more than 1 million strong. RTC is dedicated to building a nation connected by trails, reimagining public spaces to create safe ways for everyone to walk, bike and be active outdoors. Follow #CelebrateTrails on social media for updates and connect with RTC at railstotrails.org and @railstotrails on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.