Can You Bare It? June 21 Is Naked Hiking Day

This June 21 is best known as the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—but did you know that it is also (unofficially) Naked Hiking Day? If you decide to shed your clothing (not to mention your inhibitions) and hit the trails in only your birthday suit, keep in mind that local laws may not look so favorably upon your choice of attire.

There are no federal laws against nudity, so you wouldn’t be breaking the rules by hiking in the buff on U.S. Forest Service or National Park lands, but local and state laws may override federal laws in some areas.

So before you hit the trail in only your hiking boots, do your research to ensure the naked miles you clock won’t be seen as a criminal act. It’s probably good practice to choose trails that don’t see a lot of traffic, too. Everyone knows it’s the longest day of the year but most aren’t expecting a full moon.

Naked Hiking Courtesy

It is wise to either find a private, secluded trail or to join a group of naked hikers. Check with any clothing-optional resorts in your area to see if they have organized group hikes. There are several naked hiking clubs and meetup groups available around the U.S.

Some prefer to hike midweek when the trails are less likely to have clothed hikers. You might have to shift your naked hiking date when June 21 lands on the weekend. (It will be a midweek date for 2021 through 2023).

Choose an out-and-back trail so you can check for any other vehicles parked at the trailhead. That way, you can safely hike naked to a turnaround point and put on clothes for the return trip.

Some groups hiking on public trails will send a clothed hiker ahead to alert any “textile hikers” that a naked group is on the trail. This reassures others that you are not a threat, just happy, harmless naturists.