This past weekend, the Hypershell team had the privilege of joining American Hiking Society for their flagship National Trails Day® event in Lake Tahoe, and what a day it was.

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Big Meadow trailhead played host to a remarkable day of connection, conservation, and real-world testing of the Hypershell exoskeleton. From the moment we rolled into the trailhead just after sunrise, it was clear: this was more than just a day on the trail. It was a celebration of community, conservation, and what happens when people come together to protect the places we love most.

We teamed up with the Tahoe Rim Trail Association to support a volunteer crew dedicated to trail maintenance and restoration. But we weren’t just there to lend a hand. We brought something special with us: Hypershell exoskeletons, ready to test in the field.

Why National Trails Day Matters

National Trails Day® is more than an annual tradition; it’s a movement. Spearheaded by the American Hiking Society, it’s a call to action for hikers, runners, bikers, conservationists, and everyday trail users to get outside and give back. From organized cleanups to public land advocacy, the day reflects a nationwide commitment to keeping our trails open, safe, and beautiful for generations to come.

At Hypershell, we believe technology should support, not replace, the human experience. That belief is rooted in our approach to the outdoors. We see our exoskeletons as tools to help more people enjoy, access, and care for wild spaces. So when the opportunity came to collaborate with AHS for their biggest event of the year, we said yes without hesitation.

A Morning of Purpose and Possibility

With the alpine air still crisp, we set up our demo station, exos on display, firmware updated, tablecloth straightened (after a few gusts of wind). Volunteers began arriving shortly after 8 a.m., and from the very first conversations, the energy was incredible. People were curious, excited, and eager to experience something new.

During the welcome remarks, we introduced Hypershell’s mission: to enhance human mobility and endurance outdoors, without taking anything away from the experience of hiking itself. Then, the demos began.

Fitting up an exoskeleton isn’t the quickest process (something we’re actively working on), but that didn’t slow us down. Throughout the morning, over 50 people strapped into a Hypershell and hit the trail, many of them carrying tools or heavy gear over 4 to 6 miles of beautiful, rugged terrain.

Technology Meets Trail Maintenance

The goal of National Trails Day isn’t just to enjoy nature, it’s to take care of it. Participants spent hours digging water channels, clearing brush, and maintaining critical sections of the Tahoe Rim Trail.

That meant carrying tools, bending, lifting, and hiking long distances on uneven terrain, all of which offered a great opportunity to see how the Hypershell exoskeleton performed in a real-world environment.

We’re proud to say the response was overwhelmingly positive. Volunteers told us they felt less fatigue, more stability, and were able to conserve energy over the duration of the hike. Several commented on how the exoskeleton “disappeared” after a while, becoming an extension of their body rather than a bulky gadget. 

Some participants were newcomers, while others were seasoned trail workers and gearheads. Several, like Jack, our own photographer carrying heavy camera equipment, commented on how much lighter their load felt with the powered assistance. Others simply enjoyed feeling a boost in their stride, especially on steeper inclines. 

We were also joined by Bobby Marinov, an exoskeleton enthusiast and longtime community member, who arrived already suited up in his personal Carbon X. He became an unofficial ambassador throughout the day, answering questions, sharing insights, and even filming a video testimonial about his experience.

Connection Beyond the Trail

After hours of trail work and hiking, we wrapped up with a quick teardown and made our way to Divided Sky, a cozy bar-restaurant in the mountains, for an afterparty. We set up the table one more time, chatted with more volunteers, and captured some thoughtful interviews, including a glowing review from Bobby that we can’t wait to share.

Throughout the day, what stood out most wasn’t just the terrain or the tech; it was the people. The sense of shared mission. The passion for preserving the outdoors. The excitement about what’s possible when innovation supports purpose.

Looking Ahead

National Trails Day reminded us why we do what we do. At Hypershell, we believe in empowering people to go further, carry more, and stay out longer, while staying deeply connected to the environment around them. We’re honored to have partnered with the American Hiking Society and Tahoe Rim Trail Association to bring that vision to life in such a meaningful way.

If you landed here from our email update or social post, thanks for checking in. If you’re just discovering Hypershell, welcome. We’re glad you’re here. Let’s keep walking forward, together.