Partnerships with Businesses,

Agencies and Institutions 

Institutional collaboration

Businesses, agencies, and institutions of all types have a long history with the American Discovery Trail Society. In 1989 a group of writers and editors at Backpacker Magazine first floated the idea for the trail. Dozens of businesses played a role in the launch and land management agencies across the country played a role in the planning.

We invite you your firm, agency, foundation, school, or non-profit to play a role in the growth and success of the American Discovery Trail — to help people enjoy the outdoors and to help them learn about and enjoy what you have to offer.

Click here to be an Institutional Membership or Sponsor.

Local Sponsors / Partners ($150): one-time recognition each year in the quarterly newsletter, link on the ADTS website to your company’s website, American Discovery Trail Business Partner sign and decals, subscription to the quarterly newsletter - Discover America

Regional or National Partners ($400 or $750): 1/8-page advertisement / acknowledgment in one issue per year of our newsletter, link on the ADTS website to your company’s website, with your company’s logo, American Discovery Trail Business Partner sign and decals, and subscription to the quarterly newsletter – Discover America

National Sponsors ($1,000-$10,000): prominent promotion on the Society website, including a banner ad on a premium page (for donors of $5,000 or greater), 1/8-page advertisement or acknowledgment in three issues of Discover America newsletter, listing in online directory of services along the trail, American Discovery Trail Business Partner sign, opportunity to provide a discount to ADTS members, multiple subscriptions to our newsletter, and additional recognition, such as at the ADT Society Annual Meeting.

Click here to be an Institutional Membership or Sponsor.

Sponsors for Scouting the Trail in 1990-1991

History is important.

Each of the companies and entities below played a key role in scouting the trail - the first cross-country excursion: American Hiking Society, AT&T, Cannon, Chevrolet, Coleman, Duofold, Kodak, Merrell, Mountainsmith, Nike, Nalgene, Nature Valley Granola, REI, Spenco, Trek, Wild Country USA, and Yakima.

Many federal, state, and local agencies and organizations also contributed significant time and expertise, starting with the dedicated public servants at US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and National Park Service.

Institutional Sponsors and Supporters in 2025

The Society receives key support from many agencies, institutions, and businesses. Based on their giving capacity, some contribute financially while others contribute in other ways. Those with an asterisk (*) are part of our Trail Town initiative.

Below is a partial listing: