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
Trail Work and Island Views: Giving Back on Catalina
Twelve dedicated trail volunteers packed their bags and set out for a memorable week on Santa Catalina Island.
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Spring Break, the Stewardship Way: Spring 2025 Alternative Break Recap
Over 100 college students from 11 universities across the country spent their spring break giving back to public lands through week-long Alternative Break trips.
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Everything You Need for a Sunset Hike
We’ve compiled a list of tips for planning the perfect sunset hike adventure for those summer nights.
Read More2025 NextGen Trail Leaders Celebrate National Trails Day
American Hiking Society’s NextGen Trail Leaders had an incredible, positive impact on the trails and the outdoor community in honor of our 33rd National Trails Day® on Saturday, June 7, 2025!
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