Calling all military veterans, their families, and supporters…you are invited to participate in the first Arizona Trail Operation Freedom March. This year-long initiative starts July 4, 2025 and concludes on July 4, 2026, in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Operation Freedom March challenges participants to hike, ride, or horseback ride sections of the Arizona National Scenic Trail until ALL 800 MILES have collectively been covered by our community.

Participants can choose any time over the next year to complete their selected trail segments, allowing flexibility to accommodate individual schedules and capabilities. Individuals, groups and families may join established VETS Program activities or independently navigate trail segments. Everyone is encouraged to document and share their experiences through blogs, videos, or photo essays, enriching the narrative of how we connect through the Arizona Trail.

“My time in nature helped me heal from the invisible wounds of military service,” said Michael “Chappy” Chappell, Director of the ATA’s VETS Program. “Now, it’s my life’s mission to share those healing spaces with fellow veterans. Operation Freedom March is more than a challenge — it’s a unifying call for veterans, service members, and their families to reconnect with the land we swore to defend. Every mile we hike, ride, or run along the Arizona Trail is a step toward recovery, resilience, and shared purpose.”

Learn more about the various trail segments, how register for free, and much more at the Operation Freedom March website. Please share this with any military veterans you know, and encourage them to get involved.