Celebrate Family Hiking Day with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on Sept. 26

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 fifth annual Family Hiking Day on Saturday, Sept. 26. Held trail-wide on National Public Lands Day, Family Hiking Day is a program developed by the ATC to introduce and welcome families of all ages and abilities to the A.T.

“The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is proud to host Family Hiking Day for the fifth year,” said Julie Judkins, the ATC’s director of Education and Outreach. “Family Hiking Day is a great way to promote physical activity, entice friends and families to go outdoors, and encourage exploration of the Appalachian Trail’s natural beauty.”

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. Planned events vary based on location and include a wide range of activities and guided hikes led by A.T. club volunteers. RSVPs are required for guided hikes, and carpooling is encouraged.

As a partnering organization celebrating National Public Lands Day, the ATC will offer Fee Free passes to all participants in registered Family Hiking Day events. The Fee Free pass is good for one day of free entry to any participating federal public land, no matter the agency, and is valid for one year.

For more information about Family Hiking Day, including guided hikes, a list of suggested hikes by state, and activities, visit http://ift.tt/1QIcWnf.

For more information on the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains, please click here.



Jeff
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