Hike-a-Thon Frequently Asked Questions

Hike-a-Thon is Washington Trails Association's premiere fundraising event of the year. Every year, hikers collect sponsors and pledges from family and friends, then spend the month of August hiking the mountains, the coasts and everywhere in between. Got a question? The answer is probably here.

What is Hike-a-Thon?

A super fun way to benefit Washington Trails Association, Hike-a-Thon gives you the opportunity to help protect trails while hiking and earn great prizes from generous Hike-a-Thon sponsors. Check out the Hike-a-Thon Hall of Fame to see past event stats.

After registering for the event online, you can make your own Hike-a-Thon fundraising webpage. By collecting flat or per-mile pledges from your friends and family, your efforts will add up fast!

Who can hike for Hike-a-Thon?

Everyone! Young and old, newbie or thru-hiker, trail volunteer or climber, anyone who loves hiking and hiking trails can participate.

Can I hike as part of a team for Hike-a-Thon?

Yes! Teams of two to six members are allowed in this year's event. You can even create a Team Hike-a-Thon webpage which reflects your team's fundraising goal. When you register, simply follow the directions to register as a team. Teams compete for their own special grand prizes, but all Hike-a-Thonners are eligible for special awards and cumulative prizes.

Can my family participate in Hike-a-Thon?

Yes! Just sign your family up as a team when you register. There are also grand prizes for the family team and the individual hiker under 18 that hike the most.

My company wants to participate in Hike-a-Thon. Can we join as a group?

Yes! Any company can form a Hike-a-Thon Group, then create teams of two to six members. You'll even be asked to create a Group Hike-a-Thon page, where all your company's teams can find support. If you'd like to start a Group, email kara@wta.org.

How much hiking is involved in Hike-a-Thon?

Hike as little or as much as you like during August; all miles on named trails will count toward your Hike-a-Thon goals. Track all the miles you hike to compete for most miles hiked during the month, as well as for special prizes.

What can I win?

In 2012, we had over 30 categories to compete in, so it's hard not to win! We're still working on prizes for this year's event, so check back soon to view the loot up for grabs.

Are there Hike-a-Thon hiking outings?

Yes! We have several exclusive Hike-a-Thon hiking outings and events planned.

Can I hike in other states and countries for Hike-a-Thon - or only in Washington?

You can count any mile you hike in August on any named trail anywhere in the world as a Hike-a-Thon mile.

Can my Hike-a-Thon sponsors become WTA members?

Of course! Any sponsorship of $40 or more is eligible for a new WTA membership. Want to renew a current membership with your pledge? Just email Kara Chin at kara@wta.org. Sponsorships applied to memberships are tax-deductible.

Is there a registration fee?

Yes. The $20 registration fee will get you a Hike-a-Thon t-shirt (while supplies last) and helps WTA field this fun event. This fee is not tax-deductible.

Will my participation be matched by my employer?

Many companies will match participation in cause-related events. You should check with your employer to see if your participation in Hike-a-Thon will count. The Boeing Company, for example, will contribute $100 for up to two cause-related events per year. Microsoft, on the other hand, will match your hours hiking so you may want to tally those too! Check with your HR department to see if your participation will be matched. If it is, your company's match will count towards your Hike-a-Thon fundraising goal.

Can my company sponsor Hike-a-Thon?

Yes! Sponsorship opportunities are still available for outdoor gear companies and other businesses who want to support the event. Contact Lisa Unsoeld-Chang at lisac@wta.org or 206.625.1367 for more information