NATIONAL DAYENVIRONMENT

Celebrate Trails Day

On Celebrate Trails Day, the calendar stops being just numbers and becomes a reason to gather.

APR25
Saturday, April 25Fourth Saturday in April
Roots
Launched in 2013 by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Vibe
A spirit of community and environmental stewardship
Hashtag
#CelebrateTrailsDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate Celebrate Trails Day.

  • Actually do the ritual — not just talk about it.
  • Invite one person who usually gets overlooked.
  • Save one small thing from the day (a photo, a recipe, a note).
  • Let the kids be in charge of something small.
  • Make a plan for next year while this one's fresh.

Make it your kind of celebration

  • Family

    Do the tradition — even a scaled-down version.

  • Kids

    Let them have a job in the ritual. Kids love being useful.

  • Couples

    Write down what you want this time of year to feel like.

  • Office

    Acknowledge the day. Small gestures make a big difference.

  • School

    Tie the day into curriculum history, culture, or craft.

  • Community

    Host or attend a neighborhood gathering.

  • Just me

    Keep one small ritual just for you. You don't owe anyone a performance.

Plan ahead

Celebrate Trails Day is observed on the fourth Saturday in April. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Apr 25this year
2027Sat, Apr 24
2028Sat, Apr 22
2029Sat, Apr 28
2030Sat, Apr 27
2031Sat, Apr 26
2032Sat, Apr 24
2033Sat, Apr 23
2034Sat, Apr 22
2035Sat, Apr 28
2036Sat, Apr 26

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Tens of thousands of miles of trails across the U.S.
Hundreds of events take place nationwide each year

The story

Every year, the fourth Saturday in April marks Celebrate Trails Day, a spring celebration of America's trails. Started by Rails-to-Trails Conservancy in 2013, the celebration encourages people all across the country to get outside and enjoy the nation's exceptional trails and trail systems. With thousands of trails spanning diverse landscapes, from bustling urban parks to serene wilderness areas, there is something for everyone to experience.

Read the full story

Celebrating Trails Day is not just about hiking; it encompasses a wide range of outdoor activities. People are encouraged to walk, bike, run, or horseback ride on local trails, engaging in physical activities that foster a deep appreciation for the environment. Many communities organize events such as guided hikes, trail clean-up efforts, and educational workshops to promote awareness about conservation. These initiatives aim to highlight the vital role trails play in our ecosystems and communities.

In recent years, thousands of people have taken to the trails on Celebrate Trails Day, with more than 120 events taking place in a single year, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for outdoor recreation. Events are typically organized by local hiking clubs, schools, and environmental organizations, making it easy for anyone to join in. The day not only promotes health and fitness but also encourages people to forge connections with nature and one another. As participants tread along trails, they contribute to the collective effort of preserving these natural spaces for future generations.

With the rise of digital distractions, Celebrate Trails Day serves as a timely reminder to step outside and reconnect with nature. Whether you choose to explore a local park or venture into the wilderness, there is an undeniable sense of peace and rejuvenation that comes from being outdoors. As you lace up your hiking boots this April, remember the significance of trails, not just as pathways through forests and hills, but as vital connections to our heritage, community, and the natural world.

Did you know?

01

First Trail

The Appalachian Trail, completed in 1937, was one of the first long-distance hiking trails in the United States.

02

Trail Maintenance

Many trails are maintained by volunteers, demonstrating community commitment to preserving outdoor spaces.

03

Global Trails

Countries around the world celebrate trails, with events similar to Celebrate Trails Day taking place in various nations.

04

Trail Etiquette

Respecting nature and fellow hikers is crucial, always follow Leave No Trace principles.

05

Trail Length

The Trans Canada Trail, at roughly 24,000 kilometers, is the longest recreational trail network in the world.

06

Biodiversity Hotspots

Many trails pass through biodiversity hotspots, making them ideal for observing various wildlife species.

07

Trail Challenges

Some trails offer challenges like elevation gains and technical terrain, catering to all skill levels.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome to thousands of trails, from the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest, the U.S. offers diverse landscapes for all outdoor enthusiasts.
  • CACanadaWith its vast wilderness and national parks, Canada features stunning trails that attract hikers from around the globe.
  • AUAustraliaAustralia's unique ecosystems offer a wide range of trails perfect for hiking, cycling, and exploring the great outdoors.
  • GBUnited KingdomThe UK boasts historic trails, such as the Pennine Way, that allow hikers to explore both countryside and cityscapes.
  • DEGermanyGermany's extensive network of hiking trails, including the famous Black Forest paths, makes it a popular destination for outdoor lovers.
  • NZNew ZealandKnown for its breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand offers some of the world's most scenic trails, perfect for trekking and adventure.

Keep the party going

See the calendar
FROM THE NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR STORE

Celebrate every day, all year

Official gear from the people who track 1,700+ celebrations.

Browse the shop
2027 Wall Calendar, signed by Marlo Anderson2027 Wall Calendar, signed by Marlo AndersonSigned by the founder of National Day Calendar.
Scroll to Top