Inspired by the Packing It Out team, Granite Gear’s Grounds Keepers Program was created to inspire others to value our outdoor areas and pack out trash as they hike along. Every Grounds Keeper has previously completed a thru-hike or various section hikes, has a passion for Leave No Trace ethics, is strong in mind and body, and is committed to doing their very best to pick up as much trash as possible while on the trail.
In 2017, Grounds Keeper, Sam Kaelin packed out 52.8 pounds of trash from the Pacific Northwest Trail. Way to go, Sam! Altogether, the 15 member team picked up over 1,117 pounds of trash from public trails across America!
This year, 25 hikers from around the country will “Leave it Better” and pack out trash as they hike long trails and parks, including aspiring PNT thru-hiker Emma Vigers. Congrats, to you Emma and rest of the 2018 Grounds Keepers! You can follow her #CrowntoCoast adventure on Instagram @emma.vigers to see the pounds of trash removed from the trail.