National Trails Day June 1, 2024!

John Muir (1838-1914) was a Scottish-born American Naturalist, author, environmental philosopher, botanist, and advocate for preserving our wilderness. John is also known as the Father of our National Parks. He has given us a legacy of the beauty of nature and hiking.

He instills the best parts of hiking as it is good for the soul and health.

The John Muir site was designated in 1964 as a National Historic Site in Martinez, California.

The American Hiking organization organized National Trails Day to raise awareness of our mountains, forests, and trails. On their website, https://americanhiking.org, you can register to find a local event near you or even create your own. Also available is a Pledge to sign indicating your consent to leave a trail better than you found it.

The Golden Rule for hiking is Leave No Trace.

Here are a few facts about hiking:

• 61 million people participate in hiking each year
• Arizona is the Number #1 state for hiking
• The average age of hikers is 36 but range from 13-70
• Colorado alone has 4443 trails with spectacular views
• The hardest hike is the Timberline Trail that circles Mt. Hood and is approximately 40 miles, taking 3-4 days
• The Appalachian Trail from Maine to Georgia is 2190 miles long, taking 5-7 months to complete. There are hostels in towns along the way and small stores for snacks and food
• 3 million visit the trail each year
• Only 1 in 4 make complete the whole trail

Tips and Essentials For Hikers:

Don't forget:

• The map and compass
• Water and a way to purify
• Food
• Rain gear
• Safety items, light, fire, and a whistle
• First Aid Kit
• Knife or multi-tool
• Sun protection
• Shelter
• Trash bag, disposable gloves
• Insect repellant

John Muir Quotes:

• The mountains are calling, and I must go
• And into the forest, I go to lose my mind and find my soul
• Going to the mountains is going home

https://nwhiker.com

https://www.fs.isda.gov

https://americanhiking.org

https://www.outdoors.org

https://nrpa.org