When is National Take a Hike Day?
November 17th is National Take a Hike Day.
What is National Take a Hike Day?
Don’t leave yet! Trekking ‘cross country or through the woods is the hike we’re talking about—not the “get outta here” version of “take a hike.” National Take a Hike Day celebrates the ease of access and the beauty of the U.S. trail system.
Thanksgiving is around the corner, and National Take a Hike Day is the perfect way to burn some calories before wolfing down turkey and stuffing. It’s a great time of year to head into the woods to enjoy the crisp air and the fall colors before winter crashes through with the first snow.
Congress authorized the completion of major scenic and historical trails with the National Trails System Act of 1968. The Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail are completed and available along their full length. Six other National Scenic Trails and all of the National Historic Trails still linger unfinished, but completed portions exist all along their lengths.
So whether you climb a mountain, explore waterfalls, or just meander along the river that runs through your city, take time to go explore the trails near you.
Fun facts about National Take a Hike Day!
- More than 60,000 miles of trails make up the National Trails System.
- President Lyndon B. Johnson, in 1965, established the program that has doubled the number of trails in America.
- In 2013 alone, 34 million hikers took to the trails.
How to celebrate National Take a Hike Day:
- Hit the trails with a bike or a pair of boots. Take a walking stick, or find one along the way. Bring your friends. Be sure to haul enough food and water, and research whether you’ll need animal deterrents, like pepper spray.
- Volunteer for trail-building efforts near you. You could help bring some of these national trails to completion!
What’s the hashtag for National Take a Hike Day?
After your hike, use #NationalTakeAHikeDay to tag your pictures on social media.