National Trails Day
National Trails Day is an annual celebration held on the first Saturday of June to promote the enjoyment, conservation, and stewardship of trails across the United States. The event was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 to encourage people to explore trails, participate in outdoor recreation, and support volunteer efforts that maintain and protect public lands.
The origins of National Trails Day can be traced to the growing national interest in trail development and outdoor recreation following the passage of the National Trails System Act in 1968. In the early 1990s, recommendations from national trail initiatives highlighted the need for greater public awareness and support for America’s trail systems. In response, the American Hiking Society launched the first National Trails Day on June 5, 1993, with hundreds of organizations participating nationwide.
Today, National Trails Day is recognized as the nation’s largest trail celebration, bringing together hikers, cyclists, paddlers, equestrians, volunteers, community groups, and public agencies to enjoy, maintain, and advocate for trails. The event promotes healthy outdoor recreation while encouraging the preservation of trails for future generations.
