What is an Alternative Break with the American Hiking Society?
American Hiking Society's Alternative Breaks are volunteer trail stewardship projects on America's public lands. Part volunteer work project, part kick-back outdoor vacation.
Alternative Break crews are generally 6-15 students. Supervision during the project will be provided by our experienced project hosts.
Most trips last one week with weekends used for travel. Alternative Breaks combine day hiking, trail work, exploration, crew camaradie, and FUN into a weeks time and are scheduled for your student group to participate during your school break. Never been hiking or done trail work before? We welcome you! Most trips don't require any prior trail work experience, just a good attitude and a willingness to get a little dirty!
Lodging options vary depending on the trip you choose. Most Alternative Breaks will offer either indoor accommodations (bunkhouses, cabins, lodges) or access to a campground site.
Make new friends and share laughter over a campfire. Experience an amazing sense of accomplishment after buidling a bridge or restoring a neglected trail. Connect with the land. Experience nature first-hand. Spend your break doing something that makes a lasting difference. Get Out. Give Back.
The 2012 Alternative Spring Break season was completed with great success! Nine student groups from across the country participated in trail projects benefitting our trail system and public lands. See photos here.
General information about the Alternative Break program can be found on our FAQ page.
If your student group is interested in participating in an Alternative Break trip, please contact Libby Wile, Volunteer Programs Manager, at 1-800-972-8608 ext. 206 or LWile@AmericanHiking.org
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