Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Great Ohio Climate March?
May 16 – May 28, 2026
Who is organizing the march?
Third Act Ohio is the lead organizer, working along with many partner organizations. Third Act Ohio is an inclusive group of elder Ohioans who engage actively in campaigns to stop the fossil fuel take-over of Ohio’s precious lands and waters, and promote clean energy; we also work in coalition with other local and state organizations to fight for democracy.
Where will it happen, and on what kinds of trails/paths?
The march kicks off in Athens Ohio, heads northeast to Salt Fork using portions of the Buckeye Trail, then directly west using small roads, bike paths, and sidewalks, to end in Columbus.
Why this route?
One of the major goals of the GOCM is to call attention to, and educate people about, the impacts of the oil & gas industry in Ohio, particularly as relates to the fracking industry. Our route will take us past lots of Oil & Gas infrastructure, as well as points of interest like solar array fields, and data centers.
How long is it?
The full march is 13 days.
Marchers can choose to walk all 13 days, or fewer (one day, a few days, a week, etc).
Where and how many miles are we walking per day?
We’ll be walking from 7 to 12 miles, with shorter first and last days. (6 miles/3 miles). Check out the daily route for a description of each day’s march including the number of miles we’ll be walking.
Are we walking the entire way between Athens, Salt Fork and Columbus?
No, just the best & safest 100+ miles between these 3 milestones. You’ll have the opportunity to walk on trails, small country roads, off-road bike paths and sidewalks.
I don’t know how many miles I can actually walk a day, especially so many days in a row. What happens if I get too tired to march?
This is a supported march, with rest stops and water refill breaks along the way. If you find you are tiring or pushing yourself too much you can hop in the shuttle (although a few of the trail days will have limited locations for boarding the shuttle). If you are hiking multiple days and need to take a break for a day that’s ok too.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
No! But we will be providing information on training plans to help you build endurance ahead of the march, which will be especially useful for those joining for the full march, or multiple days.
Can I participate in just part of the march, or do I have to sign up for the full route?
You can choose to participate for a day, the full 13 days, or anything in between, based on your interest and availability.
What about accommodations?
Marchers can choose to camp, or stay in budget hotels. The cost of accommodations (hotel rates/campsite reservations) varies, and your registration fee will reflect that.
If I’m camping, will I need to bring my own camping gear?
Yes. Each camper will need to bring their own tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, etc.
Will there be a ‘gear truck’ so I don’t have to carry all my gear while walking?
Yes, camping gear, duffles, and suitcases for those camping or staying in hotels will be transported to the next campsite/hotel.
What if I don’t want to stay overnight, but just want to do day hikes?
That is totally fine, there’s a lower cost for day hiking (which includes food and help getting you to and from your car but not accommodations).
How about food?
Breakfast, bag lunch, and dinner will be provided. Group meals will be prepared & served at the campsites, and transportation will be provided for those staying at hotels.
Will there be safety and first aid support?
Yes. The safety team can help with common complaints such as blisters and dehydration, as well as assist with medical emergencies in coordination with local emergency services. We will also work to ensure pedestrian safety.
What does it cost to register for the march?
Day hike fees are $20 per day, which includes meals & transportation.
Marchers staying in campgrounds have a daily registration fee that ranges from $46 to $63 per day. Marchers staying in hotels have a daily registration fee that ranges from $64 to $74.
The cost for the full march for campers is $669, and for those staying in hotels it is $832.
What is included for the cost of registration?
Food, lodging (except for day hikers), shuttle transportation, and transportation assistance to and from your car on the first and last days of your march, as well as misc other kinds of support (safety vests, opportunities to be part of citizen science and art projects along the march, etc.).
If I am coming from out of state, what airport should I fly into? and how do I get to the march site?
The closest airport is John Glenn Columbus International Airport. You may need to rent a car to get to the kick-off in Athens, or wherever else you might be joining us, though it is possible we will be able to provide transportation if you are arriving in Columbus on May 15. There is also bus service from the airport to Athens that may be used, and the possibility of ridesharing with other marchers. Further details forthcoming!
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, we can’t accommodate pets on this hike.