Lend a Hand for Your Local Trail -

On Mother’s Day you call your mother. On Father’s Day you thank your dad for his guidance and support. On National Trails Day you…pick up a shovel?

That’s right, this Saturday June 5th, people all across America will be joining events for National Trails Day, giving back to the trails and natural areas they love. They will pick up shovels, picks, and pulaskis, maintain and repair trails, construct footbridges, or just get out in nature. All in appreciation of the footpaths that have given them enjoyment over the last year, and in many cases for their whole lives.

Here in the Bay Area we have dozens of events planned, from San Francisco to Oakley, Santa Cruz to Sonoma. Projects range from trail upkeep to group hikes. The service projects generally require no previous experience, are free, kid-friendly, and include a commemorative tee-shirt and barbecue lunch.

Also, national parks across the country will be waiving entrance fees on the weekend of June 5-6 to encourage people to get outside and use trails. Parks will be having special programs as well, so look out for listings of hikes, educational programs, bike rides, trail rehabilitation projects, festivals, paddle trips, and trail dedications.

To find an event in your area, see our list of Bay Area events below, or check the American Hiking Society website.