American Hiking Society (AHS) invites applications for its eighth class of NextGen Trail Leaders. With the goal to welcome all into the hiking community and advance public lands advocacy, we’re seeking five individuals, aged 18-40, from across the country who are interested in gaining advocacy, stewardship, and communications experience to be a voice of young hikers. 2025 will be an important year in outdoor advocacy, and AHS is looking to support new voices to lead the way! 

Deadline to apply is December 9, 2024.

Apply Below! 

 

NextGen Trail Leaders will:

• Partner with American Hiking Society as a voice for public lands across social media and AHS communications;
• Receive advocacy and communications training to be effective advocates and leaders;
• Join quarterly community calls to meet with fellow NextGen participants and members of the AHS community
• Participate in Hike the Hill® (virtual event), the annual advocacy week for trail users, and meet virtually with members of Congress and agency leaders on public lands and trail issues;
• Join annual National Trails Day® events in June as a host or participant;
• Have the opportunity to participate in a Volunteer Vacations trail stewardship trip at no cost (up to $860);
• Be provided opportunities to attend events and build connections with other professionals in the outdoor industry;
• Receive Mentorship from American Hiking Society Board Members
• Participate in other AHS programs and activities;

AHS Support for NextGen Trail Leaders includes:

• $1,500 professional development stipend to support career advancement goals (Stipend may be used for conference registration fees, training courses, trips, conservation work, etc.)
• $500 Gear stipend for outdoor recreation needs
• $200 Event Support and other planning support for National Trails Day®
• Complimentary Volunteer Vacation week long trail stewardship trip participation, including travel, lodging, and meals (up to $860) (funding contingent)
• Complimentary virtual registration for Hike the Hill®  2025
• Advocacy and communications training and support;
• Introductions/Connections to  NextGen Trail leader alumni
• Swag and gear from AHS and (when available) corporate sponsors

Applicants should be:

• Between the ages of 18 and 40;
• Passionate about outdoor advocacy and stewardship; and justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the outdoors;
• Dynamic communicators with an interest in sharing and growing their voice on social media;
• Available to attend or watch recordings of portions of the virtual Hike the Hill®  issue briefings February 10-14 and meet with congressional staff in March 2025 (we’ll work with your schedule);
• Available to attend or host a National Trails Day® event on June 7, 2025;
• Available to engage quarterly on social media and AHS communications on efforts to advance public lands and support and expand a diverse hiking community;
• Available to participate in quarterly community calls with fellow NextGen participants