Type II Fun on the Appalachian Trail
A.T. hikers know "Type II fun" better than most — moments that weren't fun at the time, but become some of the most memorable stories once the hike is over.
Thank you for joining the 16,853 people who have signed this petition.
Sign & Unlock $1 for the A.T.
I’m signing the Definition Petition to change the meaning of “Take a Hike” to reflect the positive impact that hiking and the Appalachian Trail have on all of us — and, thanks to Mammut, my signature unlocks $1 towards protecting and caring for the Appalachian Trail.
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Why Redefine Take a Hike?
The current definition makes it sound like a negative brush off. But as the millions who hike the Appalachian Trail and trails around the world know, taking a hike might be the kindest invitation you can give.
By signing the Take a Hike Petition and sharing takeahikepetition.org, you’re helping update a definition that’s long overdue for a change.
Let's take back take a hike!
Sponsored by Mammut
Mammut is a Swiss outdoor company founded in 1862 that offers mountain sports enthusiasts worldwide high-quality products and unique brand experiences. For over 160 years, the world’s leading premium brand has stood for safety and pioneering innovation. Mammut firmly believes that experiences in the mountains make us grow, and strengthen our physical and mental health.
Benefits of Taking a Hike
Sign the petition, and spread the word on why everyone you know should “take a hike.” You’ll be doing them a favor. Here’s why:
Reduces stress
A hike can lower cortisol — your main stress hormone — in just 20 minutes. (Frontiers in Psychology, 2019)
Boosts mental health
Nature walks ease anxiety and depression. A 90-minute hike can quiet racing thoughts and lift your mood. (PNAS, 2015)
Strengthens the body
Hiking builds cardio fitness, tones your legs, and can burn up to 700 calories an hour on rugged trails. (Harvard Health)
Reconnects you with nature
Time spent in nature strengthens your bond with the natural world — proven to boost well-being and inspire care for the planet. (Frontiers meta-analysis, 2019)
In the News
The movement to redefine “take a hike” is making headlines!
Frequently Asked Questions
“Take a Hike” is a national awareness campaign and petition from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy challenging the current dictionary definition of this phrase.
The current definition (yes, look it up) basically means “scram” or “get lost.” We think that’s due for an update. As the millions who hike the Appalachian Trail and trails around the world know, taking a hike might just be the kindest invitation you can give.
For over a century, the Appalachian Trail has offered a sanctuary from the modern world where nature thrives and people can connect with its transformative power. As the only non-profit devoted exclusively to the entire Appalachian Trail, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy is uniquely positioned to lead the national conversation about the meaning of “Take a Hike.”
At a time when public lands are under threat, it is critical that more people are aware of how important they are to their mental wellbeing and why they’re worth protecting.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has teamed up with comedian, SNL alum, and “Hiking with Kevin” YouTube host Kevin Nealon to bring humor and heart to help redefine Take a Hike.
As both a hiking enthusiast and storyteller, Kevin Nealon is a natural partner to make the case that spending time outside is good for all of us, and that “take a hike” is an invite worth accepting.
By signing the petition, you’re opting in to receive email communications from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. We’ll never sell or share your information for external marketing purposes, and that’s a promise.
