Hike into the new year + join the 2026 Make-A-Wish Trailblaze Challenge

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Imagine starting 2026 on a scenic trail where every mile challenges you, connects you with others and helps grant wishes for Alabama children in need.

Make-A-Wish Alabama Trailblaze Challenge invites you to push your limits, explore one of the state’s most beautiful trails and make a life-changing impact along the way.

Read on to see how YOU can become a Trailblazer.

The Trailblaze Challenge: what you need to know

Make-A-Wish Alabama is a local nonprofit that fulfills life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Through the Trailblaze Challenge presented by America’s Thrift Stores, you can help Make-A-Wish Alabama grant more than 185 wishes this year.

Now entering its tenth year, the Trailblaze Challenge is an endurance hiking program created to mirror the perseverance and resilience shown by Make-A-Wish kids every day.

Trailblazers commit to 12 weeks of guided training, culminating in a 26.3-mile hike completed in one day along the scenic Pinhoti Trail in the Talladega National Forest. Along the way, hikers test their endurance, cheer one another on and directly support Make-A-Wish Alabama’s mission.

“As we celebrate ten years of the Trailblaze Challenge in Alabama, we’re reflecting on how every mile, every hiker, and every donation has helped deliver hope to children who need it most.

This year is especially meaningful. For the fifth year in a row, we remain one of the state’s top nonprofit fundraising events and the largest Trailblaze program in the country. We can’t wait to see what our tenth anniversary year will bring.”

Valerie Cunningham-Trainer, Chief Advancement Officer for Make-A-Wish Alabama

It’s the ultimate adventure with a purpose

The Trailblaze Challenge isn’t just a hike, it’s a purpose-driven experience.

More than 1,500 hikers of all ages and experience levels have taken part in Trailblaze Challenge events over the years. From teens, adults, first-time hikers, to outdoor enthusiasts, everyone is welcome.

Participants receive:

• A structured training program
• Fundraising tools + support
• Aid stations with food, water + medical assistance during hike weekend

With more than 215 Alabama children currently waiting on a wish, every dollar raised helps bring strength, hope and joy to families when they need it most.

Impossible is possible with the Trailblaze Challenge

As the new year begins, Trailblaze sets the tone for 2026 as a meaningful reset, offering a fresh start rooted in hope and possibility—where hikers and wish kids alike are reminded that when you dare to dream, even the impossible can become possible.

“Being part of the Trailblaze Challenge stays with you. In this tenth year, the impact feels bigger than ever. It’s not just about the 26.3 miles—it’s about what those miles make possible. You finish knowing you’ve changed lives, including your own.”

Elizabeth Tucker, Make-A-Wish Alabama Development Manager and statewide Trailblaze lead.

2026 Trailblaze Challenge details

To begin your Trailblaze journey, you’ll need to attend a mandatory, no-commitment information session.

Information Sessions (RSVP required): January 5–22 in Birmingham, Mobile and Huntsville

• Training Kickoff:
  • January 24 – Birmingham
  • January 25 – Mobile & Huntsville

• Trailblaze Challenge Hike Weekends:
  • April 17–19
  • May 1–3

Location: Pinhoti Trail, Talladega National Forest

Registration for the 10th annual Make-A-Wish Alabama Trailblaze Challenge is now open. Become a Trailblazer—and help change lives with the power of a wish.

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