CHARLESTON, W.Va. — In celebration of National Trails Day, officials at West Virginia State Parks announced a lineup of guided hikes and trail cleanup events across several state parks and forests, scheduled for Saturday, June 6, 2026.
Organized nationwide by the American Hiking Society, National Trails Day encourages people of all ages to get outdoors, connect with their community, and become trail stewards. West Virginia is marking the occasion by inviting the public to explore the state’s vast trail networks or lend a hand in maintaining them.
Dillard Price, acting chief of West Virginia State Parks, said the state parks department hopes the annual event will encourage more West Virginians to recognize their stewardship.
“We are excited to invite every West Virginian and all of the Mountain State’s visitors to take part in National Trails Day and celebrate the incredible benefits our trail systems provide for recreation and relaxation,” Price said.
“Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these guided events offer a wonderful opportunity to experience West Virginia’s natural beauty and help ensure these trails remain vibrant for future generations.”
National Trails Day is a nationwide initiative marking its 34th year in 2026. This year’s celebration is especially significant, coinciding with the 50th anniversaries of the American Hiking Society and the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Participants across the country are encouraged to take the National Trails Day Pledge to leave trails better than they found them by engaging in activities such as trail maintenance and litter collection.
National Trails Day Event Locales
Participating state park and forest locations include:
- Audra State Park
- Beech Fork State Park
- Blackwater Falls State Park
- Bluestone State Park
- Cacapon Resort State Park
- Camp Creek State Park and Forest
- Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
- Cedar Creek State Park
- Coopers Rock State Forest
- Elk River Trail
- Kanawha State Forest
- Lost River State Park
- North Bend State Park
- Pipestem Resort State Park
- Seneca State Forest
- Tu-Endie-Wei State Park
- Twin Falls Resort State Park
- Tygart Lake State Park
- Watoga State Park
Hikers are encouraged to wear sturdy footwear, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water and snacks. For more information about specific hike times and locations at each park, visit WVstateparks.com/events.
About National Trails Day
National Trails Day is an annual celebration of hiking, outdoor recreation, and trail stewardship held on the first Saturday in June. Organized by the American Hiking Society, the event was established in 1993 to encourage Americans to explore trails and to promote volunteerism and conservation.
What began as a single day of organized hikes and service projects has grown into a nationwide observance involving federal and state parks, local trail groups, outdoor organizations and thousands of volunteers.
The purpose of National Trails Day extends beyond recreation. Organizers use the event to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining trail systems, protecting public lands and ensuring access to outdoor spaces for future generations.
Participants are encouraged not only to hike, bike, paddle or ride trails, but also to give back through activities such as trail maintenance, litter cleanup, invasive species removal and educational programs focused on conservation and responsible outdoor recreation.
Over more than three decades, National Trails Day has become one of the largest annual trail advocacy events in the United States. Millions of people have participated in organized activities, helping maintain thousands of miles of trails while fostering a greater appreciation for natural resources and public lands.
The event has also helped strengthen partnerships among government agencies, nonprofit organizations, outdoor businesses, and local communities, demonstrating how recreation and conservation can work together to support healthy landscapes and vibrant outdoor economies.
About West Virginia State Parks
West Virginia’s state parks and forests are the vacation destination of choice for more than seven million people each year. Comprising 35 parks, 9 forests, and 2 rail trails, the West Virginia State Parks system offers endless opportunities for family fun and adventure. Make memories that last forever. Book your adventure at www.wvstateparks.com.