Volunteer Vacations:
A Great Way to Get Out and Give Back

"As Americans grow more concerned about the health of their finances as well as the health of their environment, Volunteer Vacations are a great, inexpensive way to see the country while doing something good for the earth and for the soul," said Gregory Miller, American Hiking Society president.

The American Hiking Society Volunteer Vacations is offering a series of new trips for families, college students and those short on time.  These Volunteer Vacations make it easier than ever for hikers, trail advocates and volunteers of all ages to have fun, get outside and make a difference.

The 2010 schedule offers more than 55 projects in 27 states and the US Virgin Islands.  From Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California, to the Groton State Forest in Vermont, to Douthat State Park in Virginia, there is bound to be a volunteer vacation that suits your needs.

Trips range from easy to strenuous and most require no prior experience - families can enjoy front-country projects and cabin stays, while those looking for a more physically challenging trip can hike to base camps or backpack.  Typical trips last one week, during which volunteers aged 18 to 80 work on trails, get to know their fellow crewmates and enjoy campfires, outdoor cooking and exploring in their down-time.

 
For 30 years, American Hiking Society's Volunteer Vacations have offered participants one of the most affordable, fulfilling ways to explore natural areas and help improve the hiking experience.  You can browse their website to find a trip schedule that gives you the best opportunity to get out and give back

For Michiganders wanting to vacation/volunteer  closer to home this year – check out the  project starting May 9, 2010 at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the U P.  Volunteers will be helping Lakeshore trail staff get the park’s trails ready for  the season.  According to the description on their website - The trail system is dominated by the Pictured Rocks cliffs, rising up to 200 feet off Lake Superior.  Secluded coves, shipwrecks, Twelvemile Beach, the AuSable Light Station, and many other attractions lie along this scenic stretch of shoreline.  Swimming, kayaking, hiking, birding, beachcombing, and watching sunsets are among the favorite activities available.  And then of course, May is wildflower month with carpets of beautiful flowers on the forest floor.

Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America's hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience.  To learn more about American Hiking Society and its programs, including Volunteer Vacations, visit http://www.AmericanHiking.org or call Libby Wile, Volunteer Programs Manager at 301.565.6704.

Reprinted with the kind permission of American Hiking Society

First published in Green Money Journal www.greenmoneyjournal.com