Join the adventure and change lives with Make-A-Wish Alabama's 2025 Trailblaze Challenge

Adventure enthusiasts across Alabama are invited to lace up their hiking boots and make a difference by participating in the 2025 Make-A-Wish Alabama Trailblaze Challenge. This one-of-a-kind endurance hiking event, presented by America’s Thrift Stores, offers an incredible opportunity to test your limits while helping grant life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Registration for the event officially opens on Saturday, January 11, 2025, and information sessions will be held throughout January to help prospective participants learn more. These sessions are free, no-obligation, and will take place in Birmingham, Huntsville, Montgomery, and Mobile. Attendees can ask questions, connect with past participants, and sign up to be part of this transformative experience. The deadline to register is January 29, 2025.

Step Into Adventure While Making a Difference

The Trailblaze Challenge is more than a hike—it’s an empowering journey of personal and collective impact. Participants will embark on a breathtaking 26.3-mile trek along the iconic Pinhoti Trail in Talladega National Forest during one of two scheduled weekends in May (May 2-4 and May 16-18).

“With every step along the Pinhoti Trail, hikers aren’t just conquering mountains—they’re helping grant wishes that provide hope and joy to children who need it most,” said Valerie Cunningham-Trainer, Vice President of Advancement for Make-A-Wish Alabama. “This event embodies the spirit of resilience and generosity, and we’re thrilled to see what we can achieve together in 2025.”

A Proven Record of Impact

Now entering its ninth year, the Trailblaze Challenge has already raised an impressive $5.8 million, enabling Make-A-Wish Alabama to grant over 1,200 wishes to children across the state. From magical trips to Disney to meeting beloved sports heroes, these wishes provide joy, hope, and strength to kids battling critical illnesses.

This year’s goal is to raise $1 million, which would allow even more children to experience the transformative power of a wish. As Elizabeth Tucker, Development Manager and statewide Trailblaze lead, explains, “This event isn’t just about walking 26.3 miles. It’s about being part of something bigger—something that truly changes lives.”

Training and Support Every Step of the Way

To prepare for the Trailblaze Challenge, hikers will join a 12-week training program led by experts. They’ll participate in group hikes, receive personalized coaching, and enjoy the camaraderie of a like-minded community. On event day, a high-energy support crew will be on hand to cheer participants every step of the way.

Key Dates to Remember:

Info Session RSVP: Open now at alabamatrailblaze.org
Information Sessions: January 11-26 in Birmingham, Mobile, Huntsville, and Montgomery
Training Program Starts: February 1 (Birmingham); February 2 (Huntsville, Mobile)
Trailblaze Challenge Hike Dates: May 2-4 & May 16-18

Be Part of the Mission

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking for a meaningful way to give back, the Trailblaze Challenge is your chance to make an impact. Each step you take helps grant wishes that bring joy and hope to children who need it most.

Register today at alabamatrailblaze.org or attend a free info session to learn how you can get involved. Together, we can help Make-A-Wish Alabama reach its goal and transform the lives of kids and families across the state.