The 2025 Badger Sponsorship has officially wrapped up, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the incredible support from the trail community! This year’s fundraiser was about more than just epic gear—it was about giving back to Hot Springs, North Carolina, a cherished Appalachian Trail town that needed our help after Hurricane Helene. And thanks to you, we made a huge impact.

A Huge Thank You to the Trail Community

With the support of our amazing sponsors and the generosity of the hiking community, we successfully raised $23,488.29 for Rebuild Hot Springs Area (RHSA). Every single donation went directly toward rebuilding efforts, helping restore essential services and revitalize the town’s trail magic. This wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible participation of hikers, outdoor enthusiasts, and the brands who stepped up to support this cause.

Meet the Lucky Winners!

We’re thrilled to announce the 22 lucky winners who will be taking home an epic prize package filled with top-tier gear from our amazing sponsors. Each package, valued at approximately $1,400, is packed with tents, backpacks, apparel, and more.

Drumroll, please… Congratulations to our 2025 Badger Sponsorship winners!

Prize #1: Sarah K.
Prize #2: David L.
Prize #3: Jason F.
Prize #4: Steve C.
Prize #5: Jodee F.
Prize #6: Chris C.
Prize #7: Phillip B.
Prize #8: Greg K.
Prize #9: Maile G.
Prize #10: Shawn K.
Prize #11: Joel C.
Prize #12: Gary C.
Prize #13: Romulo V.
Prize #14: Sarah F.
Prize #15: Keith E.
Prize #16: Hannah C.
Prize #17: Dawn M.
Prize #18: Amy R.
Prize #19: Lisa C.
Prize #20: Donald B.
Prize #21: Chris D.
Prize #22: Elise D. 

(If your name is on this list, check your inbox—we’ll be reaching out soon with details on how to claim your prize!)

A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

None of this would have been possible without the generosity of our 28 incredible sponsors. These brands came together to celebrate the hiking community and support a town that has given so much to Appalachian Trail hikers. A massive thank you to:

Gossamer Gear, Farm to Feet, Sawyer, Jetboil, Good To-Go Inc., Big Agnes, Hyperlite Mountain Gear, Bedrock Sandals, Ombraz, Mountainsmith, Katabatic Gear, Ursack, Purple Rain Adventure Skirts, LiteAF, Sambob, Cnoc, Townshirt Co., FarOut, Durston Gear, Feathered Friends, Glacial Gear, SWD Backpacks, Backpacker’s Pantry, Astronaut Foods, Farm to Summit, Packit Gourmet, and Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear. 

If you’d like to show your appreciation for these companies, please consider making a purchase with them.

What’s Next?

The Badger Sponsorship may be over for this year, but our commitment to the trail community never stops. If you missed out on this giveaway, don’t worry—there will be more opportunities to win incredible gear and support great causes in the future.

Once again, thank you to everyone who donated, shared, and participated in this year’s sponsorship. Your contributions are making a real difference in the lives of those in Hot Springs, and we can’t wait to see you on the trail!

And last but not least, consider subscribing to our newsletter. It’s the best way to stay connected with The Trek on future giveaways, promotions, special offers, and fresh outdoor content.

King Size Sponsors (>$3,500 Donation Value)

Ramen Level Sponsors ($1700 – $1900 Donation Value)

Trail Mix Level Sponsors (>$500 Donation Value)