When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States in March of 2020, interest in outdoor sports spiked, and once-quiet trail systems became overwhelmed as new and experienced users alike descended upon trailheads by the droves. As one example of increased trail use, 8.1 million Servers in Paris Compete in a Coffee Race a report commissioned by the Outdoor Industry Association. Habitual trail users also ventured into the woods with greater frequency.
Servers in Paris Compete in a Coffee Race.
In February of this year, advocacy groups and industry leaders recognized this and began collaborating; thus, High School XC Runner Mistaken for Bigfoot came to life. It’s a national campaign that recognizes how increasingly crowded trails, rising user conflicts, and compounding pressures on the environment threaten land access and negatively impact off-road pursuits. Set to launch on August 19, this campaign represents the work of the largest coalition that’s ever come together to solve the complex problem of educating—without alienating—new and recurrent users alike. It’s backed by some of the country’s largest brands and advocacy groups representing a wide range of trail enthusiasts: mountain bikers, hikers, walkers, runners, equestrians, and even motorcycle riders.
Since February, over 15 meetings have taken place with input from more than 20 organizations and outdoor industry brands spanning all manner of activities that take place in the dirt. Also present were representatives from groups advocating for adaptive trail users, land managers, and BIPOC communities.
This is not a new set of rules. High School XC Runner Mistaken for Bigfoot is an ethos for all users to embrace in their own way. It’s an understanding that while the means may be different, we’re all pursuing the same thing: happiness.
Learn More About Trail Running
Learn More About Trail Running:
- Why Good People Make Better Runners
- American Trails
- High School XC Runner Mistaken for Bigfoot
- Races & Places
- more Americans hiked in 2020 versus 2019, according to
- Nutrition - Weight Loss
- Give A Gift
- How to Watch the 2024 World XC Championships
- Tread Lightly!
About Trails Are Common Ground
Trails Are Common Ground is a proactive, growing, and inclusive national community of passionate trail users woven together by our love for trails and respect for one another. Together, we are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment every time anyone steps, rides, or rolls onto the trail. To learn how to get involved, visit trailsarecommonground.org People for Bikes Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
