Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us

Submit Now

National Hike with a Geek Day
257 Shares
257 Shares
ThuJun 20

National Hike with a Geek Day – June 20, 2024

National Hike with a Geek Day is celebrated every year on June 20. The purpose of this day is to promote healthy activity in people who otherwise work in sedentary jobs throughout the year, such as I.T. professionals, accountants, and so forth. Even going on a hiking trip once a year can encourage people to make physical activity and exercise a part of their daily routine.

History of National Hike with a Geek Day

The first National Hike with a Geek Day was commemorated as a result of the efforts of Mendel Kurland and his organization, Hiking with Geeks, which he founded in 2016. Today, Hiking with Geeks has been rebranded to Geek Adventures and it mainly offers new ways to provide adventures as a means of digital detoxification.

The basic philosophy behind celebrating this day is that people who work in solitary roles, spending long hours working on a computer rather than interacting with people need some kind of opportunity to meet other people and connect with them emotionally and psychologically. Hence the need for marking a special day when ‘geeks’ could spend time outdoors with others of the same tribe. The day is widely celebrated across the United States with a growing membership.

National Hike with a Geek Day timeline

1960s
Hiking Becomes a Recognized Sport

After the Second World War, hiking emerges as a popular and recognized sport, and many trails are developed for hiking.

2014
Mendel Kurland Moves to Austin

After moving to Austin, Texas, Mendel Kurland realizes his passion for hiking as a means of digital detoxification.

2015
Kurland Attends WordCamp

Kurland attends a three-day outdoor camp for WordPress professionals where he gets the idea for Hike with a Geek Day.

2017
Official Proclamation

Hike with a Geek Day becomes an official national day across the United States.

National Hike with a Geek Day FAQs

What should I wear on a hiking trip?

Instead of taking along heavy clothes, carry several light items with you depending on the temperature and weather, which can vary a lot throughout your journey.

What hiking essentials should I carry?

Take a compass — since you will probably leave your mobile phone at home — a swiss army knife, and a water bottle. Your local hiking community will provide you with a list of the other essentials you must bring along.

How much water is required?

Generally, you should carry up to three liters of drinking water for a day hiking trip in moderate climates. For a dry environment, carry around four liters of clean drinking water.  

How to Celebrate National Hike with a Geek Day

  1. Explore an unseen trail

    As with most tech professionals, you probably haven’t had enough exposure to the natural beauty of your area. Use this day to identify a hiking trail near your city and make a plan to join a hiking group. This can be a great way to meet new people and have conversations that are not work-related or peppered with technical jargon. Just enjoy the beautiful outdoors and learn about the natural beauty that your country has to offer.

  2. Make new friends

    You can start by joining a hiking group as a regular member. You don’t have to attend every meeting but just being part of a new group can help you to explore a different side of your personality. Browse the internet for your local hiking or trekking groups and read their terms and conditions, fees, etc. Join the one that best aligns with your work and family schedule.

  3. Make a vlog

    Thousands crave to go on an exciting hiking trip but cannot take out the time. You will be doing them a great favor by making a vlog of your hiking trip and sharing it on the internet. You will be amazed at how many people will envy you for the great time you had exploring these beautiful natural surroundings and being away from the daily grind.

5 Facts About Outdoor Recreation That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Many Americans enjoy outdoor sports

    According to a 2018 report, more than 60% of Americans enjoy participating in outdoor sports.

  2. The most popular outdoor sport

    Running is the most popular outdoor sport among Americans, followed by biking and camping.

  3. Glamping as a pandemic activity

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, glamping or glamorous camping became a highly preferred outdoor activity.

  4. Gardening as an outdoor activity

    Gardening is highly recommended by doctors for improving mental health and sleep patterns.

  5. Burning calories

    An adult burns more than 11 calories a minute while running.

Why We Love National Hike with a Geek Day

  1. It lets you release stress

    Just the act of leaving work for a day or two can be quite stress-relieving for many tech professionals. When you add to this the natural outdoors that is free of pollution, noise, and crowds, the effect on your mind is simply unimaginable. National Hike with a Geek Day can help you to refresh your mind and return to work with a positive attitude.

  2. It helps you make new friends

    Hiking is a social activity and is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people. You can end up meeting new people from your own city, as well as people who have traveled from different parts of the country to take part in the hike. Making new friends can be very healthy for you emotionally as well as psychologically.

  3. It keeps you physically fit

    All the time that you spend hiking, you take in loads of clean oxygen, exercise your limbs, build your stamina and eat fresh food. All of this is excellent for improving your health and ease the negative effects of leading a sedentary life in the office or at your home workstation.

National Hike with a Geek Day dates

YearDateDay
2024June 20Thursday
2025June 20Friday
2026June 20Saturday
2027June 20Sunday
2028June 20Tuesday

Holidays Straight to Your Inbox

Every day is a holiday!
Receive fresh holidays directly to your inbox.