Trail Advocates to Gather in DC

February 9 – 12:  Hike the Hill® (HTH) is an annual policy event that invites foot trail advocates from around the country to gather in Washington, DC, to discuss pertinent legislative issues affecting the successful management of trails and public lands. Attendees truly do “Hike the Hill” when they climb Capitol Hill to meet with legislators and agency officials throughout the week. This year, American Hiking Society is working with Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) to develop an exciting agenda for Hike the Hill. Latest agenda updates can be viewed on the Hike the Hill page.

Already, advocates have participated in a series of policy webinars on issues ranging from “Advocacy 101” with Craig Obey to “Hot Issues in Land Management Agencies” with Derrick Crandall. Kathy DeCoster and Dave Tyahla will present in our final webinar in the 2014 series, “Hot Topics in Congress”. American Hiking Society’s Policy Webinars are available to any 2014 Hike the Hill registrants, or can be registered for separately via the same registration portal for those who are unable to come to Washington on February 9 -12.

During Hike the Hill, American Hiking Society will also be holding its second annual Congressional briefing on the Economic Benefits of Trails, thanks to Virginia Senator Mark’s Warner’s kind sponsorship. Last year’s briefing on the House side saw solid attendance from House of Representative staffers who were genuinely interested in the topic. American Hiking Society is excited to share this important information with those in the Senate this year.

The Annual Congressional Trails Reception will take place on February 11th, allowing staffers, members, agency staff and advocates to mingle together to celebrate the week’s accomplishments. AHS’ Congressional Trailblazer award will be presented to a member of Congress for leadership on hiking trail issues. Last year, the award was given to Representative Gerry Connolly (VA), honoring his many years of trails support – both on a local level as well as a national level. Mr. Connolly took the time to accept his award in person and addressed the group, calling attention to his introduction of the Complete America’s Great Trails Act bill.

Register now for Hike the Hill® 2014!  There is still time to sign up.  Visit americanhiking.org for details.