On Nov. 17, Americans trade city streets for open trails as National Hiking Day takes place nationwide. From the Rockies to the Appalachians, hikers turn a single day outdoors into a unified movement for access and preservation. Each step taken strengthens the nation’s trail network, proving that exploration and protection now go hand in hand.
Photo credit: Simply Awesome Trips.
Park agencies and trail advocates drive the coordinated effort behind this annual celebration and keep the nation’s pathways open and safe. Through their work, every mile of trail remains a space for discovery, reflection and shared stewardship.
A celebration born for the outdoors
Every year, Americans celebrate National Hiking Day, also known as National Take a Hike Day. The occasion encourages people to explore parks, forests and public trails across the country. It serves as a national call to step outside and experience the open air that connects communities from coast to coast.
Organizations such as the American Hiking Society, which partners with the U.S. Forest Service to advocate for trail conservation and outdoor access, support the event. These groups maintain thousands of miles of public trails and promote safe and responsible hiking. State parks and local recreation agencies organize guided walks and volunteer events to celebrate the day.
Taking place in late autumn, the observance often coincides with mild weather and clear skies across much of the United States. Parks grow quieter during this season, making them ideal for day hikes and scenic routes. The day reminds people that trails are public spaces meant to be used, appreciated and preserved for future generations.
A short history
National Hiking Day traces its beginnings to the rise in environmental awareness during the 1960s, when Americans recognized the need to balance land development with access to natural spaces. This movement paved the way for landmark legislation that would change how the country viewed outdoor recreation and conservation.
In 1968, the National Trails System Act advanced that vision. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed it into law, creating a network of scenic, historic and recreational routes managed through cooperation among federal, state and local agencies. The law established a lasting framework for public access and stewardship, ensuring that trails would remain open and cared for by future generations.
Although no single founder or group formally introduced National Hiking Day or National Take a Hike Day, its existence stems from years of advocacy by outdoor organizations such as the American Hiking Society and state park agencies. Their continued work helped build a national tradition that celebrates the country’s trail system and inspires people to explore and protect the landscapes that bring communities together.
Why the call matters
National Hiking Day emphasizes the shared responsibility of maintaining the nation’s trail system. The observance encourages access to public land and relies on cooperation among park agencies, volunteers and local communities. Every action, from simple cleanup efforts to guided hikes, contributes to keeping trails safe and open.
Across the country, these lands face challenges such as overcrowding, erosion and limited funding. The day draws attention to those issues by urging people to join stewardship programs and volunteer work. It also raises awareness of trail ethics, including staying on marked paths and respecting wildlife.
The event holds cultural value as well. Many trails across the U.S. follow historic routes once used by Indigenous peoples, explorers and early settlers. Walking these paths connects hikers to the country’s natural and historical heritage.
What you can do today
Plan your hike carefully by choosing a trail that matches your schedule and comfort level, and review its conditions and difficulty before setting out. Share your route with someone and pack only the essentials to stay ready for changing weather or terrain. With a little preparation, a local greenway, riverside path or shaded forest loop can turn an ordinary day into a safe and rewarding hike.
Before you go, check the weather forecast and trail advisories posted by park or forest officials. The U.S. Forest Service recommends starting early to avoid heat or low visibility and bringing enough water for your distance. Follow the signs, stay on established routes and take regular breaks to rest and observe your surroundings. These habits keep you safe and help preserve the trails for others to enjoy long after the hike ends.
After the hike, share a photo or a short story online using #NationalHikingDay or #NationalTakeAHikeDay. Doing so helps spread the idea that fresh air and open skies are always worth celebrating.
Benefits you might not expect
Hiking builds strength and balance while improving endurance. It’s a simple and natural way to stay active because every step engages muscles that support posture, coordination and joint stability. The activity adapts to nearly every age and fitness level, making it an easy choice for anyone looking to move more outdoors.
The mental benefits are just as strong. Time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, ease anxiety and sharpen focus. Fresh air and steady movement help clear the mind, while the sounds of rustling leaves and flowing water restore a sense of calm that’s hard to find indoors.
The day also promotes care for public trails and green spaces. Hours outside often lead to a deeper appreciation for natural areas and the work it takes to maintain them. Each hike becomes a small act of stewardship that keeps trails clean, safe and open for everyone to enjoy.
New paths ahead
The future of outdoor recreation is expanding beyond the trail. Across the country, new projects are improving access, safety and sustainability so more people can enjoy nature year-round. These efforts signal a long-term commitment to keeping the nation’s landscapes open and inviting for years to come.
Jennifer Allen is a retired chef turned traveler, cookbook author and nationally syndicated journalist; she’s also a co-founder of Food Drink Life, where she shares expert travel tips, cruise insights and luxury destination guides. A recognized cruise expert with a deep passion for high-end experiences and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Jennifer explores the world with curiosity, depth and a storyteller’s perspective. Her articles are regularly featured on the Associated Press Wire, The Washington Post, Seattle Times, MSN and more.
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