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Which affinity groups have emerged around hiking, and what unique approaches have they taken to exploring the outdoors?

Dalvin Masterton

Hiking has become a popular activity for individuals and groups alike. As such, there have been numerous affinity groups that have emerged around hiking. These groups vary in size and focus, but they all share a love for the outdoors and the benefits that come from hiking. In this response, we will explore some of the popular hiking affinity groups and their unique approaches to exploring the outdoors.

One of the most notable hiking affinity groups is the American Hiking Society. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to protecting and preserving hiking trails across the United States. The organization’s members are passionate hikers who work to maintain and improve hiking trails in their local communities. Additionally, the American Hiking Society offers educational resources and events to promote hiking and outdoor education.

Another popular hiking group is the Women Who Hike community. This group’s mission is to empower women to explore the outdoors and develop a sense of community through hiking. The Women Who Hike community serves as a support network for women who want to start or continue their hiking journey. The group offers resources such as advice on gear, trail recommendations, and a social media platform for members to connect with one another.

The Black Girls Hike Global community is another hiking affinity group. This group is focused on promoting diversity and inclusion in the hiking community. The Black Girls Hike Global community provides a space for Black women to explore the outdoors together while fostering a sense of community. The group also offers mentorship opportunities and promotes environmental stewardship within the Black community.

Some hiking groups have taken a more specialized focus, such as the Sierra Club Disability Outdoors program. This program is dedicated to increasing accessibility for people with disabilities in outdoor recreation. The Disability Outdoors program offers adaptive equipment for hikers with disabilities and works to improve accessibility in parks and hiking trails. This program allows individuals who often face challenges in outdoor activities to experience the benefits of hiking.

Finally, the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is an organization that seeks to promote responsible outdoor recreation. The organization has developed seven principles that serve as guidelines for outdoor activities, with the goal of reducing impact on the outdoors. Leave No Trace works with hikers, park officials, and outdoor recreation organizations to promote environmental stewardship and responsible outdoor behavior.

In conclusion, there are numerous hiking affinity groups that have emerged in recent years. These groups vary in focus and mission, but they all seek to promote a love for the outdoors and encourage responsible outdoor recreation. Whether it is empowering women, promoting diversity and accessibility, or protecting hiking trails, these groups have taken unique approaches to exploring the outdoors and fostering a sense of community.