June 1 marks the 27th annual National Trails Day. Hosted by American Hiking Society in partnership with government agencies and nonprofit organizations and individual volunteers, National Trails Day is a record-breaking single day effort dedicated to improving trail systems across the country.
“The drastic cuts to national monuments, trash pileups during the government shut down, and threats of expanded natural resource extraction have been a wake up call to outdoor lovers everywhere to raise their voices in support of public lands. Now it’s time to also physically give back, so American Hiking Society is challenging trail lovers across the country to set a trail service world record,” explains Kate Van Waes, Executive Director of American Hiking Society. “Anyone can pledge to leave a trail better than they found it on National Trails Day® by joining an organized trail service project or even just by bringing along a trash bag.”
In addition to trail work projects, thousands of individuals and organizations will host a variety of fun recreational events and activities, ranging from guided hikes to communitywide festivals, all in celebration of National Trails Day®. It’s a great opportunity for people to try something new, explore wild spaces, or get outside at a local open space. Click here to find an event near you!
SCA crews play a pivotal role in preserving over 200,000 miles of federal and state managed trails within the National Trails System. In 2018 alone, SCA improved over 1,000 miles of recreational trail.
Alumni – Get Excited!
This year, SCA is proud to announce its first Alumni Trail Crew! This SCA alumni trail crew will consist of 10 alumni who have previous trail building and maintenance experience. SCA’s primary project partner is Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC). Expected service dates are July 13-21, 2019. All alumni are encouraged to apply, but preference will be given to those who apply before June 7th. View more information and apply here.
More Trail Goodness from SCA:
- In search of a trail near you in an urban setting? Check our our Urban Trails Guide
- Trail accessibility is slowing improving – read more >>
- Backcountry trails blow our mind! Read one SCA Alum’s experience solo hiking the Hayduke