Meet John Pugh

Board of Directors

Contact: johnny@houseofswankclothing.com

John Pugh is an avid adventurer, author, and trail advocate who has thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail and paddled the full Mississippi River, and has over 6,000 miles of outdoor experience. John’s research has focused on the economic and community impacts of trails, greenways, and blueways, and long-distance hiker motives and dynamics.

Passionate about how outdoor spaces connect people and strengthen local economies, John combines firsthand experience with research and advocacy. Whether hiking, paddling, or as a New River Conservancy board member, he’s dedicated to showing how outdoor experiences build healthier, more vibrant communities.