Date
Sunday
Jun

June 1

National Trails Day

Explore your backyard and beyond on National Trails Day - take a hike, go camping, or just enjoy the great outdoors!

Yearly Date
First Saturday in June
Type
Day

Introduction

Celebrate National Trails Day on the first Saturday in June by exploring the great outdoors! This annual event was created to promote access, maintenance and use of trails throughout the country. It's a great opportunity to get out of your comfort zone and explore nature while connecting with friends, family, or even solo. Whether you're an experienced hiker or new to the trail scene, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your hiking boots and join us in celebrating National Trails Day!

National Trails Day Timeline

1945
National Trail System Initiation
The first conversations about a nationwide system of hiking trails in the United States took place.
1968
Signature of the National Trails System Act
President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the National Trails System Act, officially establishing the framework for a nationwide system of scenic, recreational, and historic trails.
1980s
Trail Awareness Heightens
Increased public and government interest led to the expansion and improved maintenance of the country's trail system.
1993
First National Trails Day
The American Hiking Society initiated the first National Trails Day to raise awareness and celebrate the vast network of trails in the United States.
2009
Million Mile Challenge
To celebrate National Trails Day, the American Hiking Society launched the "Million Mile Challenge," encouraging hikers across the nation to log a collective one million miles on trails.
2021
Virtual Celebration
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many locations hosted virtual events for National Trails Day, allowing more people than ever to participate from their local trails.

How to Celebrate National Trails Day

1

Go for a hike

Take the day to explore a trail near you. Bring some friends, pack a lunch and just enjoy the outdoors!

2

Volunteer

Do something good for your favorite trails and help out to maintain and improve them. You may even make some new friends in the process.

3

Plan a camping trip

Take advantage of the holiday and plan a camping trip! Look for trails that lead to a campground or find an area you can set up your own tent.

4

Take photos

Pack up your camera and document your journey along the trails. Capture the beauty of nature and create some beautiful memories.

5

Have a picnic

Bring some snacks and enjoy a picnic along the trail. It's a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.

Why We Love National Trails Day

A

Trail walking is good for your health

Going on a hike can help boost cardiovascular health, strengthen the body and reduce stress. Plus, you get to experience nature up close and admire its beauty - something that many people don't often get to do in their daily lives!

B

Trails are educational

Taking a walk in the woods can be an incredibly educational experience. Not only will you learn more about plants, animals, geology and other aspects of nature, but you'll also deepen your understanding of local culture and history by observing landmarks and features along the way.

C

You can explore with friends and family

It's always more fun to take a hike with friends or family members in tow! Whether it's just a leisurely stroll or an all day adventure, nothing beats getting out into nature with newfound comrades. It's a great opportunity to bond over shared experiences and create new memories!

National Trails Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jun 2
Friday
2024
May 31
Friday
2025
Jun 6
Friday
2026
Jun 5
Friday
2027
Jun 4
Friday