An October 13 virtual celebration honored the organization’s history and introduced its new executive director to the wider hiking community.
Silver Spring, MD October 16, 2026 –(PR.com)– American Hiking Society celebrated its 50th anniversary on October 13 with a virtual event recognizing the people who have shaped its work since 1976.
Since incorporating on October 13, 1976, American Hiking Society has brought people together to care for trails and speak up for the places they love to hike. Its 50th anniversary was a chance to reflect on that work, with AHS founder Paul Pritchard. Paul shared stories from AHS’s early days and urged the audience to support AHS’s efforts today. Co-founder Bill Kemsley, who passed away in June, was remembered, as well as Bill Ruskin, founder of Volunteer Vacations, who passed away in August. It was also an opportunity to thank the hikers, volunteers, advocates, and partners who made five decades of progress possible.
That commitment takes many forms: volunteers spending a week repairing trails, hiking groups welcoming people on their first outing, and advocates making the case for trail funding. Through programs like Volunteer Vacations and National Trails Day®, people can get involved in ways that work for them, whether they have a week or weekend to spend directly impacting our nation’s trails.
The celebration also looked ahead to AHS’s next 50 years under Reid’s leadership. Reid became executive director on September 14, following a national search. She brings 12 years of nonprofit leadership experience and joins AHS from the USO, where she led teams, grew fundraising, and built relationships with donors and community partners.
“This anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate all that has been accomplished while also looking boldly toward the next 50 years,” Reid said when her appointment was announced. “I’m excited to bring people together around a shared belief that trails are essential to our health and well-being and to the communities and places we all share.” – Jessica Reid, Executive Director
Learn more about American Hiking Society, volunteer and advocacy opportunities, and ways to support its work at americanhiking.org.
About American Hiking Society
Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering all to enjoy, share, and preserve the hiking experience. Through advocacy, volunteer service, and community programs, AHS helps people care for trails and protect the places they love to hike.
Contact Information:
American Hiking Society
Stixx Mathews
917-675-2962
Contact via Email
americanhiking.org
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