World Naked Hiking Day (US) is celebrated June 21st annually in the United States and some places globally. It’s a day when naturists and non naturists, thru-hikers, weekend backpackers and day hikers annually hit the trails in their birthday suits and go free hiking.
Hikers on the Appalachian Trail and Pacific Crest Trail are often participants. Most hike usually hike on remote trails, away from heavily trafficked areas To be free to bare all without much risk of offending anyone. The day has evolved into of a summertime ritual for naturist hikers and a right of passage for all thru-hikers. 1What is Naked Hiking?
History
Naked Hiking Day is marked on the annual summer solstice or midsummer. Many many mythologies and fairytales exist about midsummer. Historically people have shed their clothing symbolizing a throwing off of restrains to reconnect with nature. Naked hiking is a popular naturist activity and the symbolism of the day fits the naturist ethic. Many naturists around the world have adopted the day as a regularly celebrated naturist calendar day.
Wiccans, New Agers and Scandinavians are also known to dance around maypoles on Naked Hiking Day and some gather at ancient pagan locations like Stonehenge to partake in an “au naturel” celebration. 2What is Naked Hiking? For most it is just a fun way to get back to nature, get outdoors and exercise.
Tips
As with all naked hiking there are questions of legality. In the U.S. while it is technically not illegal to be nude on federal land like national parks, state and local laws may override. 3 Caution: Naked Hiking Day June 21 It is wise to determine local and state laws prior to going out to trails for a Naked Hiking Day celebration.
For more on tips and resources on naturist (naked) hiking see naked hiking 101
Also see:
Free hiking
Naked hiking
Naked hiking 101
References
- 1What is Naked Hiking?
- 2What is Naked Hiking?
- 3