American Hiking Society (AHS)

The new Administration has fostered new hopes for hundreds of outdoor recreation and conservation organizations. In the spirit of this optimism, the American Hiking Society asks: If you had a chance to speak with President Obama about hiking and the importance of preserving our natural landscapes, what would you tell him?

"We need to bring money to land management agencies and communities dedicated to developing trails and preserving open space - this is one of the best ways to transform one tax payer dollar into many."
- Kim, American Hiking Society - Vice President for Programs

With support from 7500 members and 275 alliance organizations, the American Hiking Society (AHS) advocates for policies intended to promote and expand hiking opportunities – policies destined to reach the top-tier of political decision makers.

American Hiking Society - Hiker Vista and Logo

Trails Advocacy Week

In the mold of a K Street lobbyist, the Policy & Advocacy arm of the American Hiking Society works year-round to push for hiking-friendly legislation. But once a year (in February), the AHS crew invites public land managers, non-profit directors, and trail advocates from across the nation to gather in Washington DC for Trails Advocacy Week. During the week of February 20-25, don't be surprised when you see a few extra Nalgenes in the halls of Congress.

This year's event features several key legislative issues including:

• Land and Water Conservation Fund
• Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
• Federal Land Transfer and Facilitation
• Energy Development Projects - How and Where

Registration is still open for Trails Advocacy Week. In order to engage a new generation of leaders, special discounts are available for students.

Hike the Hill

Hike the Hill Logo

After a weekend of issues briefings and training discussions, Trails Advocacy Week kicks off on Monday morning (February 22) with Hike the Hill. The public is invited on this 2 mile hike amongst the marble monuments of our national heroes. Yes, this may be your most politically important hike ever. Featured speakers and invited guests include: Jon Jarvis, National Park Service Director; Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR); and Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA).

Trail Voice has partnered with the American Hiking Society to promote the event. If you're interested in attending and meeting up with Ian (Trail Voice Founder and Editor), contact us directly or RSVP via the following channels:

• Facebook Event: "Hike the Hill" with the American Hiking Society
• Meetup.com: DC Metropolitan Hikers, Nature Lovers' Meetup, $3 Charity Hikers

National Trails Day

In contrast to the political overtones of Trails Advocacy Week is National Trails Day, the American Hiking Society's signature service event. For the past seventeen years, the first Saturday in June has been dedicated to enhancing and maintaining our country's 200,000 miles of trails. As the date approaches for this year's event (June 5), visit our dedicated National Trails Day in DC event page for more information (link is to the 2009 page).

Volunteer Vacations

One of the American Hiking Society's newest programs is Volunteer Vacations. From Alaska to Florida (and everywhere in between), you can join a crew for a week-long trail work project in some of America's most treasured public lands. It's "voluntourism" for the hiking set.

Local Volunteer Vacations include two summer opportunities in West Virginia and one in Douthat State Park, Virginia, scheduled for early March as an alternative spring break option.

Hiking and the American Conscience

As we embark on a new decade, issues like global warming, health care, and childhood obesity have seized the headlines. On the heels of this attention, the American Hiking Society will continue to carve its niche in the conscience of the American people.

Membership: Join the American Hiking Society
Partnership: Become an Alliance Organization
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter

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