The Highlander Hikers recently completed a five-day backpacking trip in Kalispell, collecting an impressive 1,200 pounds of trash along the way. This event, organized by the Highlander organization, aimed to promote responsible recreation and low-impact hiking.
Participants not only enjoyed the stunning landscapes but also learned about sustainability and environmental stewardship. Despite not being the main goal of the organization, the act of picking up trash showcases the participants’ dedication to leaving public lands in an even better state than they found them. With the event’s success, Highlander plans to continue hosting similar hikes in the future, fostering a love for the outdoors while educating participants about responsible recreation.
Highlander Hikers Collect 1,200 Pounds of Trash, Learn About Responsible Recreation
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Introduction to Highlander Hikers and their mission
Highlander Hikers, a global organization that focuses on low-impact hiking and sustainability, recently embarked on a five-day overnight backpacking trip in Kalispell, Montana. The trip not only provided participants with a unique outdoor experience but also instilled a sense of responsibility towards the environment. During the trip, the hikers collected an impressive 1,200 pounds of trash, showcasing their commitment to preserving and protecting the natural beauty of the trails they explored.
Background and Overview of Highlander Hikers
Highlander Hikers is an organization that organizes backpacking trips across the world, with events taking place in 17 different countries. What sets them apart is their emphasis on sustainability and education. They believe that hiking is not just about enjoying nature, but also about making a positive impact on the environment. With their mantra of “erase the trace,” Highlander Hikers strives to leave public lands in an even better state than they found them in.
Highlights of the Kalispell Backpacking Trip
The Kalispell backpacking trip offered two different routes for participants to choose from: the Hercules route, spanning 54 miles over five days, and the Pegasus route, covering 38 miles over three days. Both routes provided breathtaking views and unique experiences. However, what stood out the most was the amount of trash collected by the hikers. Compared to previous events, the participants in the Kalispell trip collected double the amount of trash, totaling an astounding 1,200 pounds.
Trips routes: Hercules and Pegasus
The Hercules route, spanning 54 miles, is a challenging yet rewarding trail that allows hikers to explore the beauty of Kalispell for five days. On the other hand, the Pegasus route covers 38 miles over three days, offering a slightly shorter but equally captivating experience. Both routes provide hikers with an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, appreciate the surroundings, and contribute to the preservation of the trails.
Amount of trash collected compared to previous events
Highlander Hikers has been organizing backpacking trips for several years now, and each event presents an opportunity for participants to contribute to the environment. The amount of trash collected in the Kalispell backpacking trip exceeded the expectations of both the organizers and the participants. Compared to a previous event in Big Bear, California, the hikers in Kalispell collected double the amount of trash, demonstrating their dedication to responsible recreation and stewardship.
Highlander’s Approach to Sustainability and Education
One of the key focuses of Highlander Hikers is promoting low-impact hiking and sustainability through education. They understand that hiking is a medium for accessing various layers of knowledge, such as sustainability, education, digital detox, and community building. By providing educational programs and inviting sustainability experts to speak at their events, Highlander Hikers ensures that participants not only enjoy the experience but also learn about responsible recreation and how they can actively contribute to preserving the environment.
The organization’s focus on low-impact hiking and sustainability
Highlander Hikers believes in leaving no trace behind. They strive to minimize their impact on the trails they hike and leave the natural environment in an even better state than they found it. They encourage participants to be mindful of their actions and adopt a responsible mindset towards the environment. By promoting low-impact hiking practices, Highlander Hikers aims to preserve the pristine beauty of the trails for future generations to enjoy.
The phrase ‘erase the trace’ and its significance
The phrase “erase the trace” has become synonymous with Highlander Hikers’ mission and values. While the commonly used phrase “leave no trace” emphasizes not leaving any impact on the environment, Highlander Hikers takes it a step further by actively striving to improve the condition of the trails they explore. They want to erase any negative impact and create a positive change by actively cleaning up the trails and educating participants about responsible recreation.
How to register for Highlander 2024
Highlander Hikers’ events are open to outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life who are passionate about sustainable hiking and responsible recreation. Those interested in participating in Highlander 2024 can register on their website at https://highlanderadventure.com/en-us/kalispell. The registration process is simple and straightforward, allowing individuals to join a community of like-minded hikers and contribute to the preservation of our natural landscapes.
In conclusion, Highlander Hikers’ recent backpacking trip in Kalispell was not only a remarkable outdoor experience but also served as a platform for responsible recreation and environmental stewardship. Their commitment to sustainability and education sets them apart as an organization that goes beyond the traditional concept of hiking. By collecting over 1,200 pounds of trash and emphasizing the importance of low-impact hiking practices, Highlander Hikers is making a positive impact on the trails they explore and inspiring others to do the same.
