Holly Mandarich
Would you like to join us as we empower all to enjoy, share, and preserve the hiking experience? Learn more about our NextGen Trail Leader and Ambassador programs.
Two Ways Individuals Can Partner With American Hiking Society
Wesley Trimble
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.
NextGen Stories
Meet American Hiking Society’s 2024 NextGen Trail Leaders
We are so excited to announce the 2024 class of NextGen Trail Leaders, bringing together rising stars in the outdoor community from across the country. Through American Hiking Society, NextGen Trail…
Transformative Leadership in the Outdoors
AHS NextGen Trail Leader, Tamika Graham, attended the AORE Conference, and shares her thoughts on the experience and key takeaways.
Volunteering in Natchez Trace State Park
By 2022 NextGen Trail Leader Aleshea Carriere I packed my bag and loaded the truck. My sister’s rushed voice beckoned from the truck speakers, “you’ll miss your flight if you…
Apply Now to Be a NextGen Trail Leader
Apply to Be a 2024 NextGen Trail Leader *1/4/24 UPDATE* Thank you for your interest in the NextGen Trail Leader Program. The application period is now closed. Selections will be…
Hike the Hill® — We Go Further as a Community
As an active outdoor volunteer I have seen the amount of maintenance and funding needed to keep trails in top condition and sustainably maintained for many years to come. Championing for more trail funding and protection of our public lands led me to advocacy.
Hike The Hill 2021 – Strengthening A New Trail Muscle
By Justin Tucker I’ve come to feel pretty sure of myself whenever I head out on trail. At this point in my life and in my hiking tenure, I’m fully…
Kaci Stringer
Shawnte Salabert
Hiking experts, leaders, content creators, and most importantly passionate advocates of the hiking experience.
AHS Ambassadors:
- Represent American Hiking Society as a voice for hiking and public lands across social media and AHS communications.
- Provide content and storytelling for the AHS Blog and social media channels.
- Receive advocacy and communications resources to be effective advocates and leaders.
- Join or support annual National Trails Day® events in their local areas in June as a host or participant.
- Have the opportunity to participate in an American Hiking Volunteer Vacation stewardship trip.
- Participate in other AHS advocacy campaigns, programs, and activities.
AHS Provides Ambassadors:
- Discounted registration for an American Hiking Volunteer Vacation trip.
- Networking opportunities with leaders and other professionals in the outdoor industry.
- Swag and gear from AHS and corporate sponsors.
AHS Ambassador Applicants should be:
- Passionate about outdoor advocacy, hiking, and stewardship.
- Excellent, dynamic communicators.
- Available to engage regularly throughout the year on social media and AHS communications on efforts to protect public lands, hiking, and diversity in the outdoors.