2026 Ultimate
Hiking Challenge
Patch design by Katelyn Davis
Welcome to the 2nd Annual Ultimate Hiking Challenge, proudly hosted by Outside Chronicles!
This year-long adventure invites hiking enthusiasts from around the globe to hit the trails and embark on a journey of discovery, fitness, and fun. Whether you’re exploring local paths or tackling rugged wilderness routes, this challenge is designed for everyone, everywhere.
Participants can earn points toward completion by logging their miles and taking on exciting bonus challenges that add an extra layer of adventure. Are you ready to lace up your boots, embrace the great outdoors, and push your limits? The Ultimate Hiking Challenge awaits.
What’s Included in the Challenge
- Challenge Packet – A PDF containing information to get you started.
- Challenge App – An app to track your progress, accessible on iPhone, Android, and web browsers for seamless use across all your devices.
- Private Facebook Group – Participants can connect with fellow adventurers in a private challenge Facebook group—a space to ask questions, share photos, swap tips, and build a supportive community with other Ultimate Hikers.
- Monthly Check-in – Meet other hikers and share stories from the trail at our monthly virtual check-in.
- Monthly Tee Shirt Giveaway – Everyone completing their monthly mileage challenge will be entered into the drawing.
- Improved Physical & Mental Wellbeing – It’s well-established that spending time in nature enhances both physical health and mental well-being, offering a boost to your fitness and overall happiness.
- Give Back – A significant portion of your challenge registration fee will support trail preservation and environmental conservation.Â
- Patch & Sticker – Complete the challenge to earn a patch, sticker, and ultimate bragging rights!
New to the Challenge? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
Giving Back
Outside Chronicles is committed to giving back by donating a significant portion of the challenge proceeds to nonprofit organizations dedicated to outdoor stewardship and land conservation. To date, we’ve proudly contributed over $450,000 to support these vital causes.
The 2026 Ultimate Hiking Challenge is supporting Leave No Trace.
© Leave No Trace: www. LNT.org
Challenge Rules
Participants need to earn 500Â points between January 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026 to receive a finisher patch.
- Hike 20 or more miles each month to earn 50 points.
- Earn an extra 50 points each month by completing bonus challenges, new challenges revealed at the start of each month.
Hikers who start the challenge in January can earn up to 1,200 points throughout the year—600 points from hiking and 600 points from bonus challenges. Bonus challenges will be unveiled monthly and will remain available to all participants until the challenge ends. Don’t worry if you join later—there will still be plenty of points to earn!
Sign Up Today!
2026 Ultimate Hiking Challenge
Non-U.S. customers, please use our Gumroad Shopping Cart.
