Are you looking for the best 2026 hiking challenges to boost your outdoors goals, make unforgettable memories, and explore new trails every week? The 52 Hike Challenge has a variety of challenge series for every kind of adventurer — from first-timers to seasoned trailblazers, kids, pets, and even lifetime explorers. Whether you want to hike weekly, discover new trails, give back to the planet, or bring your family along, 2026 is your year to answer the call of the outdoors.
Every challenge is self-directed and we ask you to hike or walk at least one-mile outdoors or in a natural setting for it to count. For adaptive hikers - we suggest a 20 to 45 minute nature outing as a hike.
The Original 52 Hike Challenge (Standard Series)
The classic 52 Hike Challenge empowers you to commit to one hike every week for an entire year or to take 52 hikes within a year's timeframe, turning small steps into big transformations.This is where most people begin — a life-changing journey that builds consistency, fitness, confidence, and connection with nature and community. Hikers choose trails that fit their fitness and comfort level, from neighborhood paths to national parks, and track progress over 52 weeks. This challenge is self-directed and you only need to walk or hike one mile minimum for it to count, but we know you’ll get more miles in than that. You can also choose the Original logo swag or commemorate the year you signed up with annual limited edition merchandise.
Sign up for the Original Series here → Original Series
Adventure Series – Take Your Challenge to the Next Level
Hike with intention and complete a list of objectives to make your journey more exciting! This challenge is similar to Original 52 Hike Challenge, but the Adventure Series adds meaningful objectives beyond weekly hikes for you to check off— think stewardship, scenic features (like hiking to waterfalls), bucket-list hikes, or introducing new people to the trails. It turns routine hikes into fun adventures that deepen your outdoor experience.
Sign up for the Adventure Series here → Adventure Series
Explorer Series – 52 New Trails in 52 Weeks
For explorers and curious spirits, the Explorer Series dares you to hike 52 new trails in one year. This version pushes you outside your comfort zone, geographically and mentally, to chase variety and discover new trails. Perfect for those who hate walking the same route twice and want their challenge to feel like a whole new experience of weekly micro-adventures.
Sign up for the Explorer Series and learn more here → Explorer Series
Kids Series – Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family
Get your kids unplugged and moving! The Kids Series adapts the challenge for families by turning it into 52 outdoor activities over 52 weeks, the challenge includes an activity book full of ideas, coloring pages and more. It’s not just hiking; it’s about adventures with kids that spark curiosity, build confidence in nature, and make the outdoors part of childhood. Activity ideas range from trail scavenger hunts to nature crafts — all designed to keep kids enthusiastic about spending time outside.
Sign up for the Kids Series here → Kids Series
Pets Series – Hit the Trails with Your Furry Friend
Don’t leave the dog at home. The Pets Series invites pet owners to complete 52 hikes with their pet(s) on pet-friendly trails, with a minimum of one mile per outing. It’s a great way to improve both your fitness and your pet’s, strengthen your bond, and explore spots that welcome four-legged companions.
Sign up for the Pets Series here → Pets Series
Lifetime Challenge – 52 Nationally Designated Parks
For the true lifetime adventurer, this challenge nudges you to visit and hike in at least 52 nationally designated parks/areas over the course of your life. It’s not tied to a calendar year — it’s a bucket-list-meets-legacy challenge that celebrates our outdoor national treasures.
Start your lifetime journey here → Lifetime Challenge
Looking for a shorter Challenge that is good for the planet? – Earth Series
Complete any combination of 10 Stewardship Hikes & 2 Leave No Trace activities* within 3 Months. On each hike, pick up trash or take part in a stewardship effort—like a trail maintenance project.
Together, we’re making a positive impact—building a community of Earth caretakers through stewardship, education, and service, all while supporting one of our favorite nonprofit partners: Leave No Trace.
Sign up for the challenge here → Earth Series
Why Commit to a Hiking Challenge?
Hiking once a week for a year builds more than fitness — it builds habits, resilience, community, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether you’re in it for personal transformation, family bonding, pet fitness, or environmental impact, there’s a challenge tailored to your goals. The 52 Hike Challenge platform gives you resources, event access, tracking tools, community support, and trail-finding help so finishing isn’t just possible — it’s downright rewarding. Don’t forget to check out our FAQ’s here for more information on the challenge.
Ready to make 2026 your most adventurous year yet? Pick your challenge above, tag your hikes, share your progress, and join hikers around the world who are making every step count.
Happy trails and transformative miles await!