NATIONAL SUMMIT DAY
Fast Facts
- CELEBRATION
- Get into the great outdoors, hit the trails, and explore
- CELEBRATED
- Each year the first Saturday in August
- CREATOR
- Created in 2017 by Backpacker Magazine
- VIBE
- Outdoors, exploration, rewarding
NATIONAL SUMMIT DAY
National Summit Day on the first Saturday in August recognizes those mountaintop summits and the people who climb there. Views from the top of the world are some of the most spectacular sights, and they are also some of the hardest to achieve. We want to help you climb your summit, starting today!
#NationalSummitDay
National Summit Day isn't just about the highest mountain peaks; it's also about those vertical inclines in our own neighborhoods. The day encourages us to get into the great outdoors, hit the trails, and explore. Climb the summit nearest you or claim the one that challenges you. Reaching the peak is only one of the many rewards of setting out on the trek.
Reaching a summit feels incredible, but simply stepping outside offers profound benefits for your body and mind. Here is why prioritizing time in nature is so important:
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Hiking and climbing boosts physical health. It builds cardiovascular endurance, strengthen lower-body and core muscles, and improve balance and agility.
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The sights and sounds of nature provide a natural mental reset from screen fatigue.
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Natural light and fresh air from the outdoors enhances concentration, creativity, and cognitive restoration.
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Hikes and outdoor adventures offer opportunities to bond with friends, family, or community members away from digital distractions.
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Setting a goal to reach a peak or destination pushes you past comfort zones, reinforcing mental toughness and self-reliance.
National Summit Day is also about the people who hike the trails and climb. Teaming up with others on the trail helps us to develop a network of interested trekkers. At the end of the day, we're rewarded with a sense of satisfaction. Oh, and did we mention the view?
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SUMMIT DAY
Gear up and join the celebration! Invite others to join you, too. The more the merrier.
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Organize a hike.
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Hit a trail you've been wanting to try.
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Join a hike that's already organized for the day.
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Take a climbing course.
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Share your experiences reaching the summit.
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Don't forget to enjoy the view.
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When you celebrate, be sure to share the story on social media using #NationalSummitDay.
NATIONAL SUMMIT DAY HISTORY
Backpacker Magazine established National Summit Day in 2017 to celebrate summits and all those who climb them.
