Get Ready for National Trails Day

National Trails Day is when we recognize the immense benefits of outdoor recreation, the physical & mental health benefits of nature, and celebrate hiking on trails located on federal, state, and local lands across America. Hikers of all skill levels, from beginners to those who have been hiking for many years, are encouraged to go hiking as well as to participate in service projects to help clean up and restore trails and responsible trail use advocacy projects on National Trails Day.

Explore Your Backyard

The great outdoors can be intimidating if you are not used to being outside for hiking, boating, fishing, or camping in the fall, but if you can take a walk, you can enjoy the benefits of hiking on National Trails Day or any day. Start by exploring your backyard, both literally and figuratively. If you have an outdoor space at home, walk around your yard and notice the leaves, pinecones, wildflowers, and wildlife that may be sharing in those natural moments with you. Exploring your backyard around National Trails Day September also means discovering a trail network near you for some simple, local outdoor recreation. You’ll stretch your legs, fill your lungs with fresh air, and make a meaningful connection with the nature world that’s waiting right outside your front door.

Hiking is a great way to exercise and all hiking trails, no matter the skill level, provide you with a wealth of memories and opportunities to see foliage and wildlife like birds, squirrels, foxes, deer, chipmunks, fish, and more. It’s important to realize and remember that whether you are out for a hike on National Trails Day or a random Tuesday evening this fall, there is no wrong way to hike, no speed you must reach or maintain, and no distance required to be covered. You can and should go at your pace, for however long you are comfortable. The most important thing is that you give yourself the chance to experience the many physical & mental health benefits of hiking, nature, and being outdoors.

Resources for Finding Trails

Like any other activity at the gym or trying a new hobby like playing a musical instrument, hiking takes practice. You should start slow and pick a hike at a distance you feel comfortable walking. Consider the following when using resources for finding trails:

• Terrain

• Skill Level

• Trail Difficulty Rating

• Elevation

• Distance / Time to Hike

• Up to Date Trail Reports

• Weather Forecast

• Permit requirements (if applicable)

Understanding the terrain — paved, dirt, rocks, etc — of each trail, the trail difficulty rating, and the skill level, elevation, distance, as well as the weather forecast for the day will help you prepare for the hike and pack the trail essentials you will need for the day. Be sure to check the American Trails website for trail difficulty ratings, skill levels, terrain, elevation, and more critical details before heading out for some fun family outdoor recreation, and check out our tips for hiking during the colder months.

Trail Essentials Packing List

You already have the scoop on the starter checklist for your fishing trips with kids. Now you need a reliable packing list for a hike! Assuming you will be enjoying National Trails Day on a day hike, here are some gear recommendations and a trail essentials packing list to keep you safe, refreshed, refueled, and comfortable during your outdoor adventure in mother nature!

• A sweat-wicking, lightweight hiking pack

• Layers of weather-appropriate clothing that are moisture-wicking and quick-drying

• Comfortable hiking footwear and socks

• Food and snacks, like nuts, granola bars, and other foods that won’t melt in the heat of the day

• Sun protection — sunscreen and/or UV protective clothing

• Fresh water in a refillable bottle

• First-aid kit

• Knife or multi-tool

• Fully charged phone

• Navigation tools — a map and/or compass should you be without a cell signal

Leave No Trace Principles

According to the National Park Service, there are 7 Leave No Trace Principles. These are the code of ethics all people should observe when spending time in and engaging with the natural world at large, not only the 63 National Parks in the U.S. They are:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare — know regulations, prepare for hazard and weather, avoid visiting during high use times of year, and visit in small groups whenever possible to reduce your overall impact on the area.

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces — stick to well-maintained trails and designated campsites that are found, not made.

• Dispose of Waste Properly — follow the simple pack it in, pack it out rule to ensure that nothing, from food to hygiene products, are left behind.

• Leave What You Find — do not take rocks, plants, or other natural objects out of parks. Essentially, take only photos and make memories.

• Minimize Campfire Impacts — keep fires small, burn all wood and coals down to ash, and use lightweight stoves when cooking.

• Respect Wildlife — Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach them, and never feed wild animals.

• Be Considerate of Other Visitors — respect others and be considerate of the quality of their experience in the parks and natural spaces you are also enjoying.

After you explore your own backyard and local area you may want to consider a family hike in Grand Canyon National Park for the next National Trails Day!