Arizona Trail Association VETS Program

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https://aztrail.org/get-involved/vets-program/

Call: 602-252-4794

Email: chappy@aztrail.org

738 N 5th Ave suite 201, Tucson, AZ 85705, USA

Servicing Arizona — events span the full 800-mile Arizona National Scenic Trail, from the U.S.–Mexico border to Utah.

What makes the organization unique?

Their mission is to connect those who have served their country with fellow service members and the Arizona National Scenic Trail. The ATA VETS Program was designed to create meaningful opportunities, on and off the trail, for military veterans.

Who can sign up to participate:

Veterans (of all eras), active duty, National Guard, Reserves, and retired military personnel.

How Much Does It Cost?:

Free to participate, and we offer carpool options to/from our events.

What kind of activities are offered?

Hiking & Mountaineering (Primary — trail hiking, backpacking, weeklong backcountry trips)
Cycling (Mountain biking is permitted and encouraged on the AZT)
More/Other (Trail stewardship/maintenance, Fox Squad backcountry crew, leadership development)

Trail Events (Day & Weeklong): Veterans join guided trail work and hiking events — from single-day outings to immersive 4–5 day backcountry trips where participants camp, eat together, build trail, and reconnect through shared mission and camaraderie.

Fox Squad — Backcountry Crew: The newest branch of VETS, providing remote backcountry trail work experiences deep in the wilderness sections of the AZT.

Non-Com Track / Volunteer Field Leader Program: A leadership development pathway for veterans within the VETS Program, structured around military-style unit leadership.

Operation Freedom March (July 4, 2025 – July 4, 2026): A currently active, year-long initiative in partnership with the Arizona America250 Commission, challenging veterans, military families, and supporters to collectively hike, bike, or ride all 800 miles of the AZT by Independence Day 2026. Participants can join organized VETS events or complete segments independently. Registration is free. Learn more at aztrail.org/events/operation-freedom-march.

How Long Do The Activities Last?:

Day events and weeklong (4–5 day) backcountry trips.

VETS events schedule: https://aztrail.org/events-schedule/

Operation Freedom March: https://aztrail.org/events/operation-freedom-march/

Main events calendar: https://aztrail.org/events/calendar/

Does the organization have a calendar of events?:

Click to Participate

Get Connected with Arizona Trail Association VETS