National Hiking Day

Categories:: Special Interest
Tags:: Environment Wildlife
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every November 17
Holiday emoji:: 🥾

National Hiking Day encourages everyone to hit the trails and reconnect with the great outdoors every November 17. Embrace the physical and mental benefits of walking amidst nature, from serene forest paths to challenging mountain ascents. Lace up your boots, explore a local park, or plan an adventure to a national treasure.

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Expected National Hiking Day Deals

As a ‘Cause’ holiday, National Hiking Day focuses more on advocacy and conservation than commercial deals. Organizations like the National Park Foundation and the Appalachian Mountain Club often highlight donation drives or membership opportunities. Retailers such as REI and Patagonia may promote their sustainability initiatives or offer discounts on outdoor gear to encourage participation. Brands like Hydro Flask and Osprey might partner with environmental groups for fundraising campaigns or offer special edition products. We will update this page with confirmed live conservation efforts and related promotions as November 17 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Hiking Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalHikingDay. Share stunning photos of your favorite trails, scenic views, and hiking adventures.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalHikingDay. Share your favorite hiking tips, trail safety advice, or advocate for trail preservation.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalHikingDay. Join local hiking groups, share event invites, or post about community trail cleanups.

National Hiking Day Hero

John Muir

Known as 'Father of the National Parks,' Scottish-American naturalist, author, and early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States. Muir's activism helped establish Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. His writings and advocacy were instrumental in inspiring the conservation movement and the creation of the National Park System.

National Hiking Day timeline

1819

Trailblazing begins

One of the first, major manicured hiking trails is created to lead up Mt. Washington in New Hampshire.

1838

The mountains start calling

In 1838, Scottish-American environmentalist John Muir is born, arguably the father of modern hiking and outdoorsmanship.

1874

Higher and Higher

A team of mountaineers reached Elbrus - the highest mountain in Europe.

1965

The U.S. recognizes trails

The National Trails System is established.

1985

Dick Bass reaches Mt. Everest

He becomes the first person to reach the highest mountain peaks on all seven continents.

2013 - 2014

Paying it forward

Volunteers put in 241,936 hours maintaining the Appalachian Trail for future hikers to enjoy.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Hiking Day

Local businesses can celebrate National Hiking Day by organizing community trail cleanups or sponsoring local park initiatives. Outdoor gear shops can host free workshops on trail safety or navigation, offering discounts on essential hiking equipment. Coffee shops or healthy eateries near popular trails can offer special promotions for hikers, encouraging post-hike refueling. Emphasize sustainability and responsible outdoor practices in all activations.

National Hiking Day FAQs

When is National Hiking Day?

National Hiking Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, November 17, inviting everyone to step outside and explore a trail. It’s a perfect mid-week reminder to embrace nature’s tranquility.

How many miles of trails are there in the U.S.?

The United States boasts over 60,000 miles of trails, offering a diverse range of hiking experiences from short nature walks to multi-day backpacking treks across national parks and forests. This vast network provides endless opportunities for exploration.

How popular is hiking in the U.S.?

Hiking remains one of the most popular outdoor activities in the U.S., with millions of Americans hitting the trails annually. The activity saw a significant surge in participation in recent years, especially with increased interest in outdoor recreation.

What are the health benefits of hiking?

Hiking offers numerous physical and mental health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles and bones, and reduced stress. Spending time in nature can also boost mood and cognitive function.

How to Observe National Hiking Day

Go for a hike
There’s nothing like getting out in the great outdoors. Grab some hiking boots, a sack lunch, a backpack, and some water, and hit the trail! Once you start, you’ll wonder why you don’t do this more often.
Share your experiences
Proud of your accomplishment? Take photos and share your hiking experiences on social media! Add hashtags like #NationalTrailsDay and #TakeAHike to inspire others to go out in the great outdoors.
Take a "Volunteer Vacation"
Hiking in exotic and diverse locations, all while giving back and building/maintaining trails all around the world. What could be better? Check out the American Hiking Society’s “Volunteer Vacation” for information on how you can make this dream a reality.

Walk This Way: 3 Fascinating Hiking Stats

Not just a walk in the park
If you hike the entire Appalachian Trail, you’ll be walking between five to seven months.
It’s what the people want
In 2008, “proximity to trails” was the most important amenity to prospective home buyers (this outranked things like access to shopping, golf courses, security, etc.).
It Makes You Appreciate Your Food
Believe it or not, hiking makes food (like freeze-dried foods or energy bars) taste up to 35 percent better.

Why National Hiking Day is Important

It's fantastic exercise
Don't get us wrong — we love our gyms. But walking on a treadmill is more akin to what hamsters experience inside their wheels. To get a better workout, hit the trail. The changes in elevation from flat, to slight incline, to steeper incline, to downhill — all help you use muscles that you may not flex everyday. Plus, on a leisurely hike, you don't feel pressured to keep up with the Joneses in the gym.
Hiking makes you happy
Endorphins and serotonin make people happy — and you get plenty of them when you’re hiking. These hormones help fight off anxiety, prevent loneliness and depression, and improve your mood. Plus, if you bring a friend along, you’re sure to have a good time.
Hiking is for every age
Whether it’s hiking the Appalachian Trail or simply walking a well-worn path, nearly every person of every age can go hiking. Plus, since you get to choose the location, the path, and often the terrain, you get to decide how much you want to push yourself.