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Climate Hikes at Global Naturefriends Days 2025!

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Climate Hikes at Global Naturefriends Days 2025!

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Nature and solidarity!

Throughout the Global Naturefriends Days, we invited all Naturefriends groups to organize and participate in various activities that showcase the beauty of nature and promote solidarity. Whether it was outdoor excursions, community projects, or educational initiatives. We came together to strengthen the bond between people and the environment.

This year, we invited our members to go one step further and organise a Climate Hike!

We still encourage you to share information and photos of your activities with us. Please use the hashtag #GlobalNaturefriendsDays and tag us on Instagram: naturefriends_international
or on Facebook: Naturefriends International

Your contributions will be featured on our social media channels, allowing the global Naturefriends community to connect and be inspired by the wonderful initiatives taking place across the globe.

Together, we can amplify the message of nature, solidarity, and the collective effort towards a sustainable and interconnected world.

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Global Naturefriends Days 2025: Nature and solidarity! | Naturefriends International

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Throughout the Global Naturefriends Days, we invite all Naturefriends groups to organize and participate in various activities that showcase the beauty of nature and promote solidarity. Whether it’s outdoor excursions, community projects, or educational initiatives, let’s come together to strengthen the bond between people and the environment.This year, we invite you to go one step further and organise a Climate Hike!

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Valuable feedback from our Climate Hikes participants

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Valuable feedback from our Climate Hikes participants

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The Climate Hikes events were a success, with participants being happy about the routes, the good length of time for the climate-related discussions, and the group-guides-atmosphere. The events helped us and the participants to learn more about our climate and society, with something for everyone! While the demographics varied depending on the target audience, there were hikes for all ages, from families with children (mainly under 10 and over 40) to young adults (20–30) and teenagers (under 20).

Most participants loved the interactive and playful elements, like games, quizzes, and tasks, which got both children and adults involved and having fun. It's so lovely to see how much they enjoy the silent walks and opportunities to connect with nature. It really suggests that a balance between education and experiential activities is ideal. We know how important it is to have all the information you need before you get going, so we're happy that our participants found the advance information they received to be useful, especially our families. The two-day format allowed for deeper discussions and a more relaxed pace, which was really lovely.

There are some areas where we can all make things better, like concentrating more on the nature experience and less on knowledge transfer, sharing more “easy” facts and information, or cutting down on the number of stops to make a relaxed pace possible. It was so lovely to hear that some participants also expressed interest in learning more about botany and wildlife. The feedback really highlighted how important it is to use a variety of methods and topics, as well as to have fun when teaching, whether formally or informally.

All in all, the events were a great success! They really brought the group closer together, and the participants gained some valuable practical skills and educational experiences. We've received useful feedback, and we're now looking into ways we can improve things like group mixing and collaboration with youth organisations. We have already considered many opportunities for establishing our Climate Hikes on a sustainable basis, both within the Naturefriends member organization and beyond, beyond the duration of the project.

All feedback from the Climate Hikes participants is very valuable and accessible to project partners for further improvements, so you can rest assured that your concerns are being heard. Thank you!

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The project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Project duration: 2024-2025.

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Families with kids geared up for a two-day high-altitude hike, camping in a cozy mountain hut above 2,000 meters. To ensure everyone was ready, we shared a detailed packing list and route briefing —terrain, challenges, food, water, and the golden rule: pack out all trash, leaving nature pristine. Hydration reminders echoed throughout the journey, especially in the thin mountain air.

Our mission? To explore climate change’s impact on mountain life. Through interactive chats and wildlife stories, kids and adults connected with nature on a deeper level. Evenings buzzed with hopeful discussions about global and personal solutions, all wrapped in positivity. And to keep young adventurers grinning, we hid little surprises along the trail—because every great hike needs a dash of magic!

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Families facing financial or disability challenges were invited to a special hike on Vitosha Mountain, just outside Sofia—a short, accessible adventure for all. Organizers spread the word through social media and personal networks, but not everyone felt comfortable joining strangers, and some canceled. Others had different needs, making it tricky to please everyone. So we tried our best to make it a good experience for the participants.

Once on the trail, the magic began! Kids crafted natural mandalas and played “Sounds of Silence,” eyes closed, soaking in nature’s symphony. The highlight? “Collect Treasures”—a game where little explorers gathered leaves, flowers, and even litter, sparking lively chats about climate change, nature’s beauty, and how to protect it. No lectures, just fun and learning hand in hand!

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Climate Hike "Regional Changes of Climate Change" (AT) by IYNF

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Climate Hike "Regional Changes of Climate Change" (AT) by IYNF

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14 brave young adults hiked up the Mitterberg in Wildalpen in Styria. Among them was one of our Belgian project partner, who, thanks to his extensive experience with outdoor activities, made an extraordinary contribution to the sharing of knowledge in coordination and hiking.

The hike began in the center of Wildalpen at the foot of the church. The group, consisting of members of International Young Naturefriends (IYNF) with international young people from Senegal, Turkey, Mexico, Czechia, Romania, Vietnam, Finland, Sweden and other countries, then hiked about 400 meters up to the top of Mitterberg Mountain. On the way up, the topics of climate change and the climate crisis were discussed using the “Guided Conversations” method. The question of how the local region in which one grew up has changed and will change in the future proved to be a particularly interesting topic, as there was such a wide representation of different countries and regions.

Furthermore, during the ascent, the method ‘How To (Not) Get Lost’ was implemented. Using hiking maps and compasses, the participants, some of whom were hiking for the first time in their lives, were shown how to use a compass and find their way around the landscape.

At an altitude of 978 metres, the group was finally rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Gesäuse landscape. In addition to snacks and selfies, the ‘Sound of Silence’ method was practised. This method helped the group recharge their strength and energy, as well as to bring some silence to the relatively large group, allowing them to experience nature even more closely and sensitively.

Overall, the hike was a positive experience for everyone involved, even though some struggled with the steepness of the route. The positive experience was not only due to the perfect weather and the good atmosphere among the participants, but also to the professional implementation of the Climate Hikes methods and the tour guides' willingness to listen during the evaluation session after the hike.

The methods we used are available and explained in detail in our Method Collection you can download in the "Training Materials"- section.

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The Climate Hike was carried out with a Year 7 class from Berlin-Neukölln – a hiking day shortly before the summer holidays.

The hike took place at Krumme Lanke in Grunewald. The aim was to enable the pupils to experience nature, strengthen the class's sense of community and provide an introduction to the topics of climate change, the climate crisis and climate justice. The focus was on playful elements that were intended to provide low-threshold and motivating access to the content.

For many students, the unfamiliar environment of the forest with its smells, insects and noises was already a challenge, which made it difficult to exchange ideas about the content. The playful activities, on the other hand, were received with enthusiasm and contributed to positive group dynamics.

We have learned that climate issues can also be communicated in a playful way. This makes them more interesting for participants and helps them learn more without feeling overwhelmed. For groups that are not very familiar with climate issues, we recommend focusing on the connection to nature and playful communication.

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City Kids Discover Het Zwin’s Wild Magic

Nineteen urban teens, most never having stepped beyond city limits, traded concrete for adventure—all for free! Our destination: Het Zwin, a breathtaking Belgian coastal reserve where tides sculpt a muddy maze of islands, a vital pitstop for migrating birds.

Our guide led us through this living classroom, revealing climate change’s fingerprints: birds skipping winter migrations, Mediterranean species moving in, and nitrogen from nearby farms choking the waters. We marveled at rare tree frogs—some teens’ first frog sighting ever!—and met storks thriving since their 1960s reintroduction.

But beauty here is fragile. Rising seas and fiercer storms threaten to swallow the swamp, while agriculture’s chemical tide poisons its heart. As the train home buzzed with newfound passion, one thing was clear: these city kids left with eyes wide open—awed by nature’s wonders and fired up to protect them.

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This Climate Hike took the group through the Samson-valley, a picturesque side valley of the Meuse-valley, shaped by the Samson stream cutting through a limestone plateau formed millions of years ago due to tectonic forces from the Alp-formation. The landscape, characterized by fertile meadows and forested hills, was shaped primarily by natural forces such as tectonics, climate changes, and erosion, with humans contributing only minor changes over the past few thousand years.

The guide highlighted the significant impact of human activity on nature, especially since the industrial revolution, marking the anthroposcene era where humans have the power to alter landscapes and threaten the planet. This was starkly illustrated by a stone quarry where massive machines were excavating dolomite, drastically altering the landscape and encroaching on an old village.

The hike also included a visit to the rocks of Goyet, where ancient humans once sought refuge in caves, and which now attract climbers. Wilfried explained the geological and biological significance of the area, including rare orchids growing on the limestone walls. The day concluded with some climbing, allowing participants to closely experience the rocks and flora, making it an educational and enjoyable outing.

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The Role of Forests in the Climate Crisis (AT)

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The Role of Forests in the Climate Crisis (AT)

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An entertaining and educational day lay ahead for the group of school children from Innsbruck. The participants came from a school class and were aged between 12 and 13. The participation of pupils with a migrant background also fulfilled one of the central aims of Climate Hikes, namely the conscious inclusion of socially disadvantaged groups.

Together with experts from the Austrian Federal Forestry Office (ÖBf), we hiked for around three hours through a species-rich mixed forest to explore the diverse interactions between forests and climate change. The group was divided into two smaller groups to allow for more intensive discussions and more space for individual questions.

During the hike, we discussed the central role of forests in our society, such as their function as CO₂ reservoirs, protective barriers and habitats. At the same time, we addressed the challenges posed by climate change, such as the increasing spread of the spruce bark beetle and the resulting ecological consequences.

The event concluded with a joint summary in which we emphasised the importance of consciously dealing with changes to our environment. After all, only those who understand current developments can actively contribute to overcoming global challenges.

During the hike, many exciting discussions arose, and the students' interest in topics such as sustainable forest management and forest protection was palpable.

The methods used for this Climate Hike can be found in the Climate Hike Training Material and all worked very well with this age group, except for the game ‘Shifting the Baseline,’ which was initially challenging because the participants themselves did not really have a historical perspective. However, by involving the teachers in the discussion, this also worked very well in the end!

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Climate Hikes "Trois Pont" for Youngsters (BEL)

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Climate Hikes "Trois Pont" for Youngsters (BEL)

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The Climate Hike Weekend, organized by Fros/Bergstijgers, introduced 12–18-year-olds from socially deprived urban families to the wonders of nature. With transportation covered and a low participation fee, the event made outdoor adventure accessible to all.

On the first evening, participants shared a vegan “Bolognese”, a new experience for many. The next day, team-building games kicked off the adventure, followed by a forest hike in Logbiermé. Using maps and compasses, small groups explored wild nature—a stark contrast to the manicured city parks they knew. The hike ended with a picnic at a striking rock formation.

In the evening, guides shared stories about forest cultivation, the history of pine trees in the Ardennes, and the region’s role in World War II, captivating the group.

The final day featured a long hike through a nature reserve, where participants spotted beaver dams. Survival expert Pieter Sagaert taught essential skills: building shelters, identifying edible plants, making fire, and “Leave No Trace” principles. Learning to manage waste in the woods was a revelation for the urban youth.

The weekend ended with a navigational challenge—using maps and compasses to reach the train station. On the ride home, lively discussions reflected the positive impact of the experience. The youngsters left with a newfound love for nature and a desire to return.

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Climate Hike by fros: Sustainable Adventure & Awareness (BEL)

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Climate Hike by fros: Sustainable Adventure & Awareness (BEL)

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The Climate Hike by fros marked the final event in a series, preparing young hikers from Naturefriends-Bergsteigers for a summer Alpine adventure. Led by Andy and Lars, the group focused on sustainable gear and travel.

Participants showcased their second-hand hiking gear—a sustainable practice encouraged by the organization. However, most wore cheap, unsustainable clothing. A comparison between a Patagonia sweater and a Decathlon one revealed the long-term value of quality, eco-friendly brands. As one hiker noted, “Cheap may be the most expensive in the end.”

The group also explored sustainable travel options for their Alpine trip. After researching maps and data, they agreed that traveling by van together offered the best balance of sustainability and flexibility. Two participants even planned to bike from Belgium to Mont Blanc. Inspired by their findings, the group signed a petition for cheaper international train travel and airplane fuel taxes.

The hike was both educational and practical, resulting in a group agreement to travel together by van and support sustainable transport. Participants also received newly printed brochures from the Belgian Climate Hikes team, offering tailored advice for Alpine hikers and climbers.

This event proved that awareness and action go hand in hand—preparing young adventurers to hike responsibly and advocate for a greener future.

The methods we used are available and explained in detail in our Method Collection you can download in the "Training Materials"- section on our Padlet.

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Snowshoe Adventure in Morteratsch Valley: Nature, Ice, and Climate Awareness (SUI)

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Snowshoe Adventure in Morteratsch Valley: Nature, Ice, and Climate Awareness (SUI)

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A group of Climate Hike participants set off on a snowshoe trek through the peaceful Morteratsch Valley, surrounded by towering spruce trees and signs of wildlife. The only sounds were birdsong, a woodpecker’s tap, and the soft crunch of snow underfoot.

Guides from FROS/Bergstijgers encouraged the hikers to engage all their senses—not just spotting animal tracks, but listening for distant creatures and imagining the hidden life around them. This led to discussions about winter wildlife adaptations and the importance of staying on trails in protected areas.

Emerging from the forest, the group faced the stunning Bernina Range, where the harsh reality of climate change was impossible to ignore. The Morteratsch Glacier is rapidly retreating, and rockfalls from melting permafrost are becoming more common.

In the afternoon, at Julierpass, the group cleared snow from a frozen lake with guide and ice-bathing expert Beni, built an igloo, and—brr!—took a dip in the icy water. Beni explained the effects of cold on the body and the role of glacier lakes in the ecosystem.

Back in a cozy hut, the hikers reflected on sustainable tourism, agreeing that their minibus travel was a good balance between convenience and eco-friendliness. The day offered a powerful glimpse into the fragile cryosphere, sparking thoughts on its future—and our responsibility to protect it.

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Family Climate Hike "Les Ardennes Belges" (BEL)

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Family Climate Hike "Les Ardennes Belges" (BEL)

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The Climate Hike in the Belgian Ardennes offered a unique perspective on the region, focusing on its significance to the foresting industry, water ecology, and rewilding efforts for endangered species.

Starting at the Naturefriends’ house Les Gattes, participants engaged in team-building activities before embarking on a muddy hike through various biotopes above Grand-Haleux. The landscape featured pine-tree plantations, birch woods, and moorlands, with guide Paul explaining the historical and ecological importance of these areas.

The pine trees, planted in rows, have been crucial for the mining industry due to their fast growth. Birch woods, though slower to harvest, are maintained for biodiversity and economic value. The moorlands play a vital role in Belgium's water supply, with strict regulations to prevent pollution. Our guide highlighted endemic moor plants and the importance of beavers in maintaining biodiversity and water levels.

The hike also revealed a birch forest owned by the Flemish town of Bruges, illustrating the historical ownership patterns in the Ardennes.

And the most important thing: concluding the hike with a local meal and beer, reflecting on the day's insights. This is where we tried to make the connection between what the participants saw today and how it might change in the times of the climate crisis. This was a very lively discussion and for us very important to connect the dots between nature experience and future visions.

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#Climate Hikes visits ASA-Programme (GER)

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#Climate Hikes visits ASA-Programme (GER)

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As part of two preparatory seminars of the ASA-Programme in Duderstadt, a total of around 50 participants experienced our Climate Hikes. ASA is an international exchange programme for young people who are committed to making the world a more just place. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a central focus – making this the perfect setting for our activity.

At each seminar, two groups set out on hiking routes of different lengths to explore key questions of climate justice. Along parts of the former inner-German border trail, we discussed historical responsibility for CO₂ emissions, global inequalities, and various dimensions of justice.

The second part of the hike focused on the emotional aspects of the climate crisis. Inspired by Nishnaabeg author and activist Leanne Betasamosake Simpson, we asked: How can a sense of connection with the more-than-human world around us become a source of strength in the fight for climate justice?

The diversity of perspectives among the participants enriched the experience and once again showed how Climate Hikes can create space for reflection, exchange, and motivation.

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Climate Hike "Forest Futures: Aridity & Water Supply" (AT)

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Climate Hike "Forest Futures: Aridity & Water Supply" (AT)

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Naturefriends International invited the participants of the Young Naturefriends Climate Tour to a special Climate Hike to Knofeleben (Lower Austria). The trail started at the historical Payerbach-Reichenau railway station and continued through impressive scenery up to the Naturefreinds House Knofeleben at 1,250 metres above sea level. The hike took around two and a half hours and offered stunning views, historical scenery but also quiet, beautiful forest.

The area has experienced more and more wildfires in recent years which therefore was the overall topic of this Climate Hike. A local expert showed the participants hidden treasures on the way and was able to enhance the overall experience by telling anecdotes and local history only known to the inhabitants of the area. This truly made this Climate Hike unique and special.

The methods used were “Value Game” “Having A Closer Look” and “Climate Anxiety Reframing”. While “Having A Closer Look” proved to be the perfect game for the Climate Tour participants while hiking, “Climate Anxiety Reframing” turned out to be a great game for finishing off the hike on a positive note at the end. All in all the hike was a success and will most certainly be repeated by a number of participants soon.

The methods we used are available and explained in detail in our Method Collection you can download in the "Training Materials"- section on this Padlet.

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Social Media Slides Climate Hikes  Shared folder

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Climate Hike "Glaciers in Times of Climate Crisis" (AT)

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Climate Hike "Glaciers in Times of Climate Crisis" (AT)

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On 5 July 2025 a Climate Hike in Kolm Saigurn in conjunction with the ‘Klavier am Berg’ created lasting memories.

The event on 5 July fulfilled all expectations and promised to be an impressive Climate Hike right from the start. The guided hike not only allowed participants to experience the impressive natural scenery around Kolm-Saigurn, but also created space for exchange, reflection and new perspectives, combining the joy of being outdoors with concrete ideas for sustainable living and a conscious approach to our environment.

During the approximately three-hour hike along the newly opened glacier trail ‘Gletschereis und Goldrausch’ (Glacier Ice and Gold Rush), selected methods from the Climate Hike Guideline were applied. In small discussion groups and interactive exercises, we explored topics such as climate justice, climate communication and personal contributions to environmental protection. The important thing was not to assign blame, but to motivate and encourage people to change.

The highlight of the event was the simultaneous ‘Glacier Concert’, during which pianist and mountaineer Chiara Schmidt transformed the area around the melting Goldbergkees glacier at over 2,000 metres above sea level into a place of musical and emotional meeting space!

You can find even more information about the event here.

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Le recueil de méthodes contient des procédures détaillées et des méthodes pour différents thèmes et groupes cibles de ta Climate Hike.

Avec notre guide pour les Climate Hikes, tu disposes de tout le matériel nécessaire pour la planification.

Le téléchargement est gratuit !

Si tu as des questions, des commentaires ou des idées, n'hésite pas à nous écrire !

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Die Methodensammlung enthält detaillierte Abläufe und Methoden für verschiedene Themen und Zielgruppen deines Climate Hikes.

Zusammen mit unserem Leitfaden für Climate Hikes verfügst du über alle notwendigen Materialien für die Planung.

Der Download ist kostenlos!

Wenn du Fragen, Feedback oder Ideen hast, schreib uns einen Kommentar!

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For the reason of transparency, we are sharing the evaluation of our National Trainings with you. If you have any questions, please let us know.

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Unsere Climate Hikes Guideline soll dir Anregungen und konkrete Planungsschritte für die Gestaltung deines eigenen Climate Hikes geben. Der Download dieser Guideline ist kostenlos.

Wenn du eine breite Palette von Methoden und Zeitplänen für deinen Climate Hike möchtest, kannst du auch die Climate Hike Training Materials auf dieser Website herunterladen.

Wenn du Fragen, Feedback oder Ideen hast, lass uns einen Kommentar da 👇

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National Training Naturpark Märkische Schweiz, Germany

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National Training Naturpark Märkische Schweiz, Germany

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Spring is awakening, birds have returned – the perfect setting for the National Training for Climate Hikes in the "Naturpark Märkische Schweiz", Germany. This event brought together outdoor enthusiasts, educators, and climate activists to explore how to integrate climate-related topics into hiking experiences.

The day started with a warm welcome and a brief historical insight into the tradition of Social Hiking within the Naturefriends movement, highlighting how this practice serves as an inspiration for Climate Hikes today. Throughout the hike, we engaged with the four scenarios outlined in the training materials, each accompanied by an interactive method and a reflective discussion.

One of the key highlights was a session with a local beekeeper, who shared insights into the impact of the climate crisis on biodiversity and pollinators. Another activity focused on climate justice, encouraging participants to take a multi-perspective approach to the topic.

For lunch, we enjoyed a plant-based meal, made with ingredients from the nearby community-supported farm, Lawine.

In the final part of the training, we delved into the topic of climate emotions and resilience, discussing how personal feelings about climate change can be integrated into educational hikes as well as thinking about practices of resilience. As we made our way toward the train station in Obersdorf, we encountered beaver dams in the fields sewer and freshly emerging water reservoirs . This symbols of resistance and success in changing the course of events with limited actions was a fitting and symbolic ending to a day dedicated to exploring the connection between nature and climate action.

Would you like to learn more about Climate Hikes or join future events? Stay connected and be part of the movement!

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Nos directives pour les randonnées climatiques devraient vous inspirer et vous fournir des étapes de planification spécifiques pour créer votre propre randonnée climatique. Le téléchargement de ces directives est gratuit.

Si vous souhaitez disposer d'un large éventail de méthodes et de programmes pour votre randonnée climatique, vous pouvez également télécharger les documents de formation sur les randonnées climatiques sur ce site web.

Si vous avez des questions, des commentaires ou des idées, veuillez les indiquer ci-dessous 👇

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Ръководство за климатични походи (на български език) [Climate Hikes Guideline Bulgarian]

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Ръководство за климатични походи (на български език) [Climate Hikes Guideline Bulgarian]

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Нашето ръководство за климатични походи ще ви даде вдъхновение и конкретни стъпки за планиране на вашия собствен климатичен поход. Изтеглянето на това ръководство е безплатно.

Ако искате да получите широк спектър от методи и програми за вашия климатичен поход, можете да изтеглите и учебните материали за климатични походи на този уебсайт.

Ако имате някакви въпроси, отзиви или идеи, моля, коментирайте по-долу 👇

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The Training Materials provide detailed curricula and methods for different topics and target groups of your Climate Hike.

Together with our Climate Hikes Guideline, you'll have all the necessary materials for planning your own Climate Hike.

The download is for free!

If you have any questions, feedback or ideas, please comment below!

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Guideline + Training Materials Climate Hikes ENG

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The Climate Hikes Guideline is available in English, French, German and Bulgarian. Enjoy!

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Our Climate Hikes Guideline should give you inspiration and specific planning steps on how to create your own Climate Hike. The download of this Guideline is for free.

If you want a broad range of methods and curricula for your Climate Hike, you can download the Climate Hike Training Materials on this Website too.

If you have any questions, feedback or ideas, please comment below 👇

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National Training Rila Mountains, Bulgaria

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National Training Rila Mountains, Bulgaria

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“Exploring the connection between climate change, changing snow conditions, unpredictable weather patterns in winter, and their impact on animal behavior, as well as the role of sustainable transport” was the focus of the Climate Hike on the 29th of December 2024 in the Rila Mountains of Bulgaria! Among other activities, participants described how their favorite mountain place has changed over the years, whether due to an increase in tourism or shifting weather patterns, and furthermore attempted to link these changes to global climate change. In the next step they explained how they feel about this change which led to great insights in how climate change affects not only the earth, nature and societies but also each and everyone of us personally, too.

All in all, the participants were happy and learned more practical methods how to discuss topics like climate change and environmental sustainability together in a group.

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National Training Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria

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National Training Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria

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On the 2nd and 3rd November 2024 participants met in the village of Kovatchevitsa in the Rhodope Mountains in the south of Bulgaria to test and develop their skills in games with relation to nature protection! The participants were trainers for teambuilding, children’s workshops and summer camps, and the occasion proved to be very valuable for the people involved. The Climate Hike offered a great opportunity to test different methods in order to enhance knowledge of nature protection, for example the “Animal Habitat Relay” where kids run between stations and perform tasks like sorting items that belong in each habitat in order to learn how to recognize and protect them in the real world.

All in all, the participants were greatly satisfied with all implemented methods and had a feeling of leaving the hike with gained knowledge and a higher appreciation for nature and its inhabitants!

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The hilly region of the Flemish Ardennes is well known for its rolling hills, lush greenery, and quaint villages and the agricultural landscape. A Climate Hike, carried out by FROS, through these fields offers the perfect opportunity to talk about the diversity of agricultural practices. On the one hand, you can see the highly industrialised forms of cultivation, which can be recognised not only by the vastness and the ‘emptied’ fields, but also by the traces of erosion that are a consequence of this cultivation. In direct contrast, the participants were able to examine the small-scale, organically farmed fields. The difference between these practices in relation to the protection of nature and the climate crisis was particularly impressive here. Direct insights into the life of an organic farmer emphasised what the eye could already see: The future of agriculture can only happen in harmony with nature!

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Learn by doing what you love! That was the idea of the first Climate Hike carried out by FROS in Belgium.

A group of young mountaineers with a big heart for climbing and hiking experienced nature and its changes first hand. By orienteering, meeting locals, writing and landscape analysis they had a closer look on their surroundings and could address changes due to the climate crisis.

The most important message: We are more willing to protect what we love. And the message for us: We have to give people the knowledge and tools, so they can act now!

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In this section we'll post our already completed Climate Hikes. This should work as inspiration and as a pool of ideas for your next Climate Hike.

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Here you can find all additional activities related to the project. If you have any questions you can contact us via the mentioned contacts used or just comment below the postings.

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How to implement SDGs and climate-related topics into a training of young climbers and hikers? That was the central topic of the National Training at the Naturefriends House Les Gattes (Logbiermé, Belgium). The participants were coming from different backgrounds with different level of knowledge. With different methods developed within the Climate Hikes project, we tried not only to enhance the exchange of knowledge between the participants, but also to give them some ideas about how to raise awareness on climate-related topics on their next climbing adventure. We used orienteering to understand the history of the landscape, invited locals to talk about their experience with climate change in the region and how hikers influence the surrounding vegetation. The most important lesson we learned: It’s a different kind of experience when you learn about nature and the climate while you’re doing your favourite activity!

You want to join mountaineering-activities in Belgium or have questions about the training? --> https://www.bergstijgers.org/

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The Terra Lenta festival of our Italian nature friends (GIAN) offered us the perfect opportunity to present our ‘Climate Hikes’ to an audience. Terra Lenta, or ‘slow earth’, was created to reflect on sustainable ways out of the climate crisis and to develop ideas on various dimensions of sustainability, such as social inclusion, biodiversity, and environmentally friendly tourism. We took advantage of this fertile ground and interested festival guests were able to develop initial ideas for their own climate hike in our workshop. Not only did we collect new ideas for potential climate hikes, but the participants also inspired each other with their creative thoughts.

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The National Trainings are the test runs for our method-collection for Climate Hikes. Together with multipliers (e.g. hiking guides, volunteers, educators) we tested some of our methods to get their feedback and improve our methods for the Climate Hikes Guideline. The Guideline will be available at the beginning of 2025. Stay tuned!

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International Training (Bad Hofgastein, AT)

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International Training (Bad Hofgastein, AT)

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At our International Training all partners worked on developing Training Materials for your next Climate Hike! The training materials will be available online in the course of the project and give you ideas, inspiration and necessary know-how for planning a Climate Hike.

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Climate Hikes - Hiking towards a better future (c)NFI

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"Climate Hikes" should provide inspiration and ideas on how to combine the joy of hiking with raising awareness of the interactions between one's own behavior, environmental protection and other topics to enhance a sustainable future for everyone. Climate Hikes is a cooperation project between Naturefriends International (NFI), Young Naturefriends Germany (NFJD), Ecosystem Europe and FROS Multisport Flanders (fros). More info: nf-int.org/climatehikes