Looking for a hiking challenge this summer? Live in the southeast US or Mid-Atlantic? Love getting off the usual beaten path to find pristine wilderness? Then the Dirty Dozen Hiking Challenge just might be for you!

What is it?

The Dirty Dozen challenge is a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. It is being sponsored by the Wilderness Society Southeast region. The idea is to hike in a dozen wilderness areas, doing at least 10 miles of trail in each wilderness area. You can break up the ten miles over multiple trips if necessary.

Why do it?

Wilderness areas are the most pristine land in the United States, at the highest level of protection. This presents an awesome excuse to go explore the wilderness areas near you! As a bonus this is a one time hiking challenge.

Where can I participate?

The challenge is being run in wilderness areas in the following states: Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi.

When does this happen?

The challenge is currently in progress and will end in September 2015.

Where do I sign up?

You can sign up for the challenge here: Dirty Dozen Wilderness

Happy Trails and good luck!