Named after Inez Milholland, an iconic leader in the women’s suffrage movement, the hike is a way to honor the anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment.

Founded in 2009, CATS creates and maintains over 98 miles of hiking and walking trails, protects 992 acres of land, and hosts outdoor education events in New York’s Champlain Valley. The Mount Inez trail, located in the Champlain Valley region of the Adirondack Mountains, offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The roughly 4-mile round-trip hike has an elevation gain of 1,000 feet, reaching the summit at 1,598 feet.

“CATS is dedicated to connecting people with nature and honoring the history of this region,” CATS Executive Director said. “Mount Inez is a perfect trail for people to celebrate the legacy of the suffrage movement and the women who dedicated their lives to fighting for equal rights.”

Milholland was a leading suffragette, activist, and lawyer who grew up near the base of Mount Inez. She was a key figure in gaining momentum for the women’s suffrage movement in New York in the early 20th century through organizing marches and rallies. Tragically, she died at the young age of 30 while on a speaking tour to promote women’s voting rights. CATS aims to raise awareness of her important role in the suffrage movement by improving access to the trail that bears her name.

The Mount Inez hike is free and open to everyone. It is led by the CATSWomen volunteer group and CATS staff. If you’re feeling festive, please consider wearing white, symbolizing the suffragette movement.

The hike will begin at 9 a.m. at the trailhead, off the Lewis-Wadhams Road. Hikers are asked to park at the Meadowmount School of Music in Westport. For more details and to register, visit champlainareatrails.com.