Spring Break, the Stewardship Way: Spring 2025 Alternative Break Recap
This past spring, over 100 college students from 11 universities across the country chose to spend their break giving back to public lands through week-long Alternative Break trips.
Alternative Breaks are immersive experiences combined trail work, day hikes, exploration, crew camaraderie, and fun—all while developing hands-on stewardship skills and fostering a deeper connection to nature. Students trade a typical spring break for boots and shovels, to help promote trail access in parks and public lands across the U.S. Through their hard work and the connections they made, they not only improved the land—they grew in ways they didn’t expect.
Here’s a look at some standout moments from 2025 Alternative Break trips taken by university students across the country.
UT Dallas – James River State Park, VA
Students from UT Dallas spent the week maintaining and improving 5–6 miles of heavily used trail, including a major re-route of a washed-out section. Their work on the Burnside, Branch Pond, and connector trails helped prepare the park for its 50,000–70,000 annual visitors. Park rangers expressed heartfelt appreciation for the group’s dedication and passion, noting the lasting impact of their efforts. One student reflected, “This trip gave me a meaningful way to give back to the parks I’ve grown to love.”
Tarleton State University – Kiptopeke State Park, VA
At Kiptopeke, students from Tarleton State discovered not only the value of trail stewardship, but also of self-growth and community. One student shared, “I learned I am stronger than I think—and how others see me.” Between beachside bonding and meaningful work in the park, the group walked away with lasting friendships and a newfound appreciation for the many ways to lead and give back.
Illinois State University – Cumberland Trails, TN
Illinois State students took on rugged trail work at Cumberland Trails, finding strength and connection through shared effort. One of the week’s most memorable moments came when the group finally reached a creek they had heard all week but hadn’t seen—an emotional reward after days of hard work. Students said the experience gave them more than just a break from school; it gave them friendships, memories, and pride in what they accomplished together.
Colgate University – Kiptopeke State Park, VA
Surrounded by trails, trees, and the peaceful coast, Colgate students embraced the opportunity to give back while reconnecting with themselves. They shared how the beauty of Kiptopeke and the support of its passionate park rangers made the experience deeply meaningful. One student said the simple joy of exploring trails alone and hearing waves nearby became a personal highlight—offering quiet moments of reflection amid a week of service.
Because these students chose to turn their break into something bigger than themselves, their energy, enthusiasm, and dedication not only made a lasting difference on miles of trails and public lands across the country—they also sparked a ripple effect of stewardship that will carry forward long after spring break ended.
To learn more about Alternative Breaks and how your college or youth group can participate, learn more here!
AHS also offers Volunteer Vacations, which is a great way for individuals of all ages to combine their passion for travel with meaningful service work. These trips provide a unique opportunity to make a positive impact while exploring new destinations and cultures. Check out our trips here!
Finally, if you’d like to participate in National Trails Day events organized by AHS, where volunteers come together to celebrate and improve trails across the country, learn more here.