The San Juan National Forest invites the public to participate in multiple trail work events as we celebrate National Trails Day in events designed to leave trails better than we find them.
National Trails Day was established by the American Hiking Society in 1993 and occurs annually on the first Saturday in June. It brings together federal land managers, partners, and volunteers to celebrate trails and accomplish trail stewardship projects to ensure they are safe, well-maintained, easy-to-follow and accessible.
Additionally, the Forest Service is designating tomorrow, June 6 2026, as an additional recreation Fee-Free Day to the 2026 calendar to celebrate National Trails Day, meaning all standard amenity recreation sites on Forest Service lands will be at no cost to the public. For all 2026 Fee-Free Days on National Forest System lands and information, please visit our website. Fee Free Days applies only to standard amenity recreation fees and does not waive expanded amenity fees, concessionaire charges, reservation fees, special recreation permit fees, or third-party costs unless separately authorized.
The Forest Service is encouraging all visitors to take the #NationalTrailsDay Pledge and commit to leaving trails better than you found them. Events on the San Juan National Forest can be found at www.americanhiking.org/national-trails-day or by clicking the links below:
Durango Trails – National Trails Day Volunteer Maintenance Dig Day
Mesa Verde Backcountry Horsemen – Annual Poker Ride and Cleanup
Mancos Trails Group – National Trails Volunteer Work Day
San Juan Backcountry Horsemen – Treasure Falls Cleanup
The Forest Service-managed trail system, at more than 165,000 miles, is the largest public trails system in the United States. In 2025, volunteers and partners accounted for more than 60% of all trail maintenance accomplishments (nearly 26,000 miles).