REI Co-op Donates $1 Million to National Trails on Public Lands Day

REI Co-op, the nation's largest consumer co-op and a leading specialty outdoor retailer, has announced a significant donation of $1 million to support America's National Scenic and Historic Trails. This initiative, launched in conjunction with National Public Lands Day on September 26, 2026, aims to foster trail advocacy, education, and stewardship across all 50 states.

Starting September 8, members, customers, and employees of REI Co-op have the opportunity to vote online or in REI stores to allocate a portion of the donation among eligible nonprofit organizations dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the nation’s trail systems. According to Mary Beth Laughton, president and CEO of REI Co-op, "Our national trails give us room to breathe and help us feel connected to nature, to one another, and to ourselves. On National Public Lands Day, we're giving back to them."

The donation will be divided into four categories. $430,000 will be distributed equally among the participating trail organizations. A further $500,000 will be allocated based on the member/voter preferences, allowing the public to shape the future of these vital trails. Additionally, $50,000 will be retained by the Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) for operations, and $20,000 will be dedicated to at least four national trails that do not currently have a designated trail partner.

"We're proud to join REI in connecting people more deeply to the trails they love," said Courtney Lyons-Garcia, executive director of PNTS. "From trail maintenance and volunteer stewardship to advocacy and leadership development, this support will strengthen the projects and partners caring for some of America's most cherished outdoor places."

Throughout September, more than 130 REI stores will host local trail organizations and community groups, helping people discover places to explore and connect with partners in their communities. These events will offer opportunities for people to volunteer, advocate, and care for public lands close to home. The effort is part of REI’s ongoing commitment to protecting and preserving outdoor spaces, reflecting its mission of enabling life outside for all.

The donation aligns with REI’s long-standing legacy of investing in stewardship, advocacy, and community partnerships. For 50 years, the co-op has worked to ensure outdoor places remain accessible, welcoming, and well-maintained. This latest initiative is an extension of that legacy, creating new opportunities for people to get involved and engage with the great outdoors.