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!
2025 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
Breaking Down Walls and Building Bridges: City College of New York Students Experience the Adirondacks
Five students from City College of New York left the city behind and traveled by public transportation to the heart of the Adirondacks.
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Building Bridges: Misericordia University Students Volunteer at Kiptopeke State Park
A dedicated group of Misericordia University students traveled to Kiptopeke State Park to volunteer on trail improvement projects.
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Hard Work and Lasting Friendships on California’s Wild Lost Coast
Eight adventurous volunteers packed their bags and set out for a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking Volunteer Vacation in the King Range Conservation Area along California’s rugged Lost Coast.
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Volunteer Spotlight: Meet David Martin
David Martin has been a dedicated Volunteer Vacation volunteer, and has recently celebrated his 10th annual trip with American Hiking!
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