The advocacy day brought together members of Pennsylvania’s hiking and trail community to highlight the importance of hiking, trail protection, conservation, and outdoor recreation across the Commonwealth.
The event included a press conference in the Capitol Rotunda, opportunities to connect with legislators and their staff, and representatives from organizations working to support Pennsylvania’s trails and public lands.
First Lady Lori Shapiro, a guest speaker and champion of Pennsylvania’s trails, joined Hike Harrisburg to highlight the importance of maintaining safe and accessible trails and the volunteers who help care for them.
“It's a hard job keeping our trails safe and accessible for hikers, and I’m so grateful to the trail associations and volunteers who give their time and energy to help keep our trails in good shape for hikers and support the work our Commonwealth does to maintain the more than 14,000 miles of trails in our state parks and forests,” said First Lady Lori Shapiro.
“My family loves being outdoors, and we are so lucky to live in a place where we have so many great opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature. I’m proud to support Hike Harrisburg with our trail associations and encourage our neighbors in Pennsylvania to get outside and check out a local trail.”
Pennsylvania has more than 14,000 miles of trails, connecting communities across the Commonwealth and providing opportunities for recreation, physical activity, conservation, and connection to the outdoors.
“Pennsylvania has an incredible trail network, but keeping that network vibrant and strong requires partnership,” said Karen Lutz, Hike Harrisburg emcee, KTA Board Member, and former Mid-Atlantic Regional Director for the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. “The organizations gathered today represent a statewide community committed to Pennsylvania’s trails, and together we are advocating for the health, recreation, conservation, and economic benefits that trails bring to communities across the Commonwealth.”
“When we invest in trails, we’re not simply building pathways. We’re investing in healthier people, resilient communities, a higher quality of life, and a thriving economy, with returns that extend for generations,” said Holly Smith, Executive Director of Keystone Trails Association.
The inaugural Hike Harrisburg also highlighted the critical role of volunteers and trail organizations in maintaining Pennsylvania’s extensive trail network.
From trail maintenance and stewardship to education, advocacy, and leading hikes, volunteers contribute countless hours to keeping trails accessible and cared for throughout the Commonwealth.
Hike Harrisburg is part of KTA’s ongoing work to provide, protect, preserve, and promote recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities throughout Pennsylvania.
Participating organizations included:
-- Appalachian Trail Conservancy
-- Blue Mountain Eagle Climbing Club
-- Cumberland Valley Appalachian Trail Club
-- Keystone Trails Association
-- Mid State Trail Association
-- North Country Trail Association
-- Pennsylvania Environmental Council
-- Pennsylvania Outdoor Business Alliance
-- Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation
-- WeConservePA
The Keystone Trails Association is Pennsylvania’s statewide hiking organization, working to provide, protect, preserve, and promote recreational hiking trails and hiking opportunities throughout the Commonwealth.
KTA supports trail stewardship, advocacy, education, volunteerism, and hiking opportunities across Pennsylvania.
Visit Explore PA Trails and Get Outdoors PA for recreation areas near you.
Resource Link:
-- DCNR: Pine Creek Rail Trail Honored As Pennsylvania’s 2026 Trail Of The Year During Special Event In Tioga County [PaEN]
[Posted: September 29, 2026] PA Environment Digest
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