The annual ALDHA-West Gathering is simply that, a gathering of hikers who share a love of long-distance outings.

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Typically the event starts on Friday evening and runs through Sunday lunch. Workshops, world-class presentations about hikes around the world, and the many aspects of backpacking culture, trails, and know-how flow through the weekend. This is also a great weekend where you can make new friends or see old ones year after year after year. What started in 1994 as a group of 7 committed hikers in the western hiking community getting together and showing a few slides has evolved into a full-sized event with all of the amenities of a professional conference- while still offering a setting befitting of our love of the natural world.

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The Triple Crown of Hiking Awards ceremony highlights the weekend Saturday evening. Here, you’ll likely find the largest concentration of Triple Crown of Hiking recipients, people who’ve hiked all of the three major long-distance trails (Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trail). Nowhere will you get such a concentrated and personal exposure to the depth of hiking experience. There is no better way to celebrate backpacking than by attending the ALDHA-West Gathering.

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The Gathering rotates each year to a different western state, from Colorado to Oregon to California. As the Gathering has grown the venues have changed to meet the demands. Keep in touch to be updated on each years’ state and venue.