Celebrate National Public Lands Day with the Arizona Trail Association!

Join us September 26–28 as we gather on the North Kaibab for a weekend of camping, community, and stewardship in honor of National Public Lands Day. This year’s theme, “Our Home Outdoors”, invites us to honor public lands as the shared spaces where we connect with nature, each other, and our sense of belonging.

We’ll be working on Passage 42 of the Arizona Trail, focusing on tread repair, clearing trees and fire rehabilitation in areas impacted by the White Sage Fire. This important work will help restore the trail’s stability, improve user safety, and support the recovery of the surrounding landscape. We’ll be using tools such as McLeods, pick mattocks, rogue hoes, pulaskis, rakes, and shovels—but no experience is required! Our crew leaders will provide all the training and guidance you need to make a difference.

This year’s event will also kickoff Operation Freedom March with ATA's VETS Program. ATTN: all military veterans, service members, families, and supporters—you’re invited to participate in this year-long challenge (July 4, 2025–July 4, 2026) to collectively hike, ride, or horseback ride all 800 miles of the Arizona National Scenic Trail in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. This NPLD project is your chance to log miles, build camaraderie, and contribute to the mission.

Weekend Highlights:

• Camping: Enjoy two nights under the stars on the beautiful North Kaibab Plateau @ Orderville Canyon TH (Friday & Saturday).
• Meals Included: We’ll keep you fueled with hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners.
• Community: Share stories and laughter around the campfire after a rewarding day of trail work.

All tools and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided. Final details, including meeting times and packing suggestions, will be sent to registered volunteers a couple of weeks before the event.

Come be part of a nationwide day of service, connect with your public lands, and help ensure the Arizona Trail remains a welcoming path for generations to come. In these current times—with constant threats to public lands—this work could not be more important to ensure the longevity of one of our nation’s most beloved treasures: our public lands.

Spots are limited so reserve yours today!