Join Appalachian Trail Conservancy for Family Hiking Day
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC), along with its Appalachian Trail (A.T.) Community partners and 31 Trail maintaining clubs, invite families to take a hike on the A.T. during the fourth annual Family Hiking Day on Saturday, Sept. 27. Held trail-wide on National Public Lands Day, Family Hiking Day is a program developed by the ATC to introduce and welcome families to the A.T. and all of the benefits that come from spending time outdoors.
With studies showing that children are spending less time outdoors each year, the ATC developed this program to help get kids, youth, families and trailside neighbors outside and active. Hiking the A.T. is not only a good source of physical exercise, it also provides an opportunity to create lasting memories and long-term appreciation for protected public lands.
“The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is proud to host Family Hiking Day for the fourth year,” said Ron Tipton, executive director/CEO of the ATC. “It’s a great opportunity to engage families with the outdoors, promote physical exercise and encourage people to explore their natural and cultural heritage on the Appalachian Trail.”
Families from Maine to Georgia are invited to enjoy the outdoors with volunteer-led hikes, or to plan an adventure on their own utilizing a list of family friendly hikes in their local area as well as trail-related games and activities. Guided hikes will be led by A.T. club volunteers, partners in A.T. Communities and health organizations like the YMCA near Asheville, North Carolina. RSVPs are required for guided hikes, and carpooling is encouraged.
For more information about Family Hiking Day, including guided hikes, a list of suggested hikes by state, and activities and tips, visit www.appalachiantrail.org/events.