Seattle – September 11, 2026 -- REI Co-op is donating $1 million to organizations that maintain America's National Scenic and Historic Trails, and shoppers get a say in how some of the money is spent.
Members and customers can vote online or in stores through October 2
From September 8 to October 2, REI members, customers and employees can vote in stores or online to help direct a portion of the funding to eligible nonprofit trail organizations. The donation, tied to National Public Lands Day on September 26, supports groups caring for more than 60,600 miles of trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail.
The $1 million splits into four specific allocations
Per REI's terms, $430,000 will be split equally among participating trail organizations that are members of the Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS). Another $500,000 goes to specific projects chosen by the outcome of the public vote. PNTS retains $50,000 for operations, and $20,000 is reserved for at least four national trails that currently lack a designated trail partner. The donation flows through REI's Donor Advised Fund at the Seattle Foundation.
PNTS says the money funds volunteers, youth programs and advocacy
"We're proud to join REI in connecting people more deeply to the trails they love,