Protecting the Places You Love to Hike
Advocate for Hiking Access + Improve Trails
We envision a world where everyone feels welcome in the American hiking community and has permanent access to meaningful hiking, including urban, frontcountry, and backcountry opportunities.
Advocate
American Hiking works with Congress, federal agencies, and partners on policy issues and legislation to ensure funding for trails, preservation of public lands, and protection of the hiking experience.
NextGen Trail Leaders are rising stars in the outdoor community and the voice of young hikers who take part in a yearlong program of advocacy and stewardship to protect public lands.
Each year American Hiking brings together five early to early-mid career leaders in the outdoor community with a diversity of identities from across the country. American Hiking provides these Leaders with training, mentorship, networking, trail stewardship opportunities, and professional development and gear stipends. Through this partnership, NextGen Trail Leaders build and refine their advocacy and outdoor leadership experience and skills, speaking out to elected officials, serving as ambassadors to the hiking community, building a nationwide stewardship movement, and championing conservation, equity, and inclusion.
Ryan Nelson
Volunteer
Trails don't maintain themselves. Individuals of any age and experience level can become trail stewards. Give back to the trails you love, meet new people, and enjoy the experience!
2024 Volunteer Vacation Registration is Open
Work hard, get dirty, dig deep...and feel immensely rewarded.
Explore
Feel confident when you set out on your next trail adventure. Check out our free hiking resources like tips for hiking with families, gear checklists, finding the best trail for you, and more.
Latest Stories and Updates
Cold Weather Adventures: Everything You May Need to Enjoy the Trails With Athletic Brewing Co.
Heading outdoors for an adventure in the cold weather? Don’t forget this gear to make your trek more enjoyable, and, of course, safe.
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American Hiking Society Intern Feature: Meet Nghi Nguyen
American Hiking Society’s Programs Intern, Nghi Nguyen, is taking over the AHS Blog to chat about hiking experiences, and what she’s looking forward to during her time with AHS!
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Appalachian Trail Centennial Act (H.R. 9159)- Letter of Support
Support for the committee’s consideration of and further enhancements to the Appalachian Trail Centennial Act (ATCA), H.R. 9159, which will support hikers, the National Trails System, and public lands.
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Hiking in the Summer: Managing Sunburn and UV Risk
Chief Medical Officer of GOES Health, Dr. Grant Lipman, shares what you can do to protect yourself from sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
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