TAKE A HIKE

Our Mission: 

LEAP's mission through "Take a Hike" is to unite youth through a local and global hiking event that reconnect young people with nature while raising funds for planet and youth-focused organizations. 

When is Take a Hike? 

The 2026 Take a Hike event will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

What is Take a Hike?

Participants choose a trail in their community, invite friends and family members to sponsor them per mile hiked (or with a flat donation), and give all funds raised to a non-profit organization benefitting animals or the planet. Whether it’s a one-mile walk or a five-mile challenge hike, every step makes an impact. All ages can participate, but youth are especially encouraged! 

Take a Hike is completely free to participate in. You do not need to raise or donate money to be part of the event. Fundraising is optional; what matters most is getting outside, moving your body, and reconnecting with nature and your community. To sign up without cost just click ‘Join This Event,’ and choose ‘Join a Team,’ and you’ll be registered for the hike you selected. 

How do I get involved?

Some options for getting involved include hosting your own event, participating in an event, sponsoring this project, donating, and spreading the message! 

Accessibility:

Take a Hike is meant to be an event that is accessible to all, regardless of the disabilities or challenges we may face. The main goal is simply to get outside, connect with nature, and move in ways that feel comfortable and enjoyable for each person. Participation does not have to look the same for everyone—outdoor activities such as bird watching, nature journaling, plant identification, photography, mindful sitting, and short or assisted walks are all encouraged. Whether someone hikes for miles or spends time quietly observing their surroundings, every way of experiencing nature is valid and valued.

Which organizations do we support?

All funds will go to vetted non-profits that support animals and the planet, such as farm animal sanctuaries and wildlife organizations. You can choose your favorite org when you register or donate.

What are some things we can do to keep our planet wild and preserve nature?

One of the most impactful choices is eating vegan or more plant-based foods. Animal agriculture uses vast amounts of land, water, and energy, often leading to deforestation, habitat destruction, and the loss of wildlife. By choosing plant-based options, we reduce the demand for land used to raise animals and grow their feed, allowing forests, grasslands, and wetlands to remain untouched and truly wild. Veganism also lowers greenhouse gas emissions and reduces pollution in nearby ecosystems, helping protect biodiversity and the natural balance of the planet. While there are many ways to help the environment, shifting toward a plant-based lifestyle is a simple, everyday action that can make a lasting difference for nature.

A Note from the Founder of "Take a Hike" - LEAP Youth Advisory Council Member, Siri Kaelin (16)

I created Take a Hike because, for a long time, I felt like the odd one out; I was the kid who would rather spend hours hiking to a scenic view than wandering the mall. It was disheartening to watch so many people my age lose their connection to the outdoors, trading sunshine and fresh air for screens and indoor activities. 

While I’ve since found friendships where a perfect weekend means a good trail and a great view, I wanted to create that same sense of belonging for others who may feel the way I once did. I believe nature is one of the most meaningful and healing parts of the one life we get, and being disconnected from it is like holding a book but never reading the pages.

Growing up in a time when climate change and the rapid loss of wildlife are realities we must face can feel overwhelming, especially for young people. The scale of these issues often makes it easy to feel powerless, leading many to think, “There’s so much wrong in this world, what difference can I really make?” or “I don’t even know where to start…” I felt this way for years. 

Through Take a Hike, I hope to give other youth an opportunity to take meaningful action in a way that feels accessible rather than overwhelming, and is grounded in community rather than fear.