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“Time spent outdoors and in nature can help with both mental and physical health,” says Travis Bordley, SAHC’s outings program manager. “We hope this Challenge will make it interesting for folks to explore places you may not have hiked before, and/or to rediscover the joy of nature in your own backyard. No matter your background or ability, this is a program designed to get folks outside in order to benefit from experiences in nature. You can take the Challenge by yourself or along with friends and family.”
The 2024 SAHC Winter Hiking Challenge sets a goal of 60 miles in 60 days, to be completed in your own time and at your own speed. Those can be miles you’ve walked, rolled, run or hiked – in your neighborhood, around the block, on an accessible paved track, up a rugged mountain trail, or through the forest. Whatever works for your comfort and skill level, with the goal of reaching 60 miles within the 60-day challenge time period, January 1 to March 1, 2024. Registration is open now and ends on February 25. After registering, participants can log their miles, and those who complete the 60 mile goal will receive a commemorative SAHC patch following the end of the challenge. Registration is $25 per person, and the registration fee directly supports conservation work in the Southern Appalachians.
“All participants will receive informative emails with suggestions for some of our favorite places to hike across the mountains of NC and TN,” adds Bordley. “These will include recommendations to enjoy places that SAHC has protected as well as other favorite trails and destinations. Due to overuse of popular trails in the area, we will try to share tidbits about some of the lesser-known trails and places to enjoy the great outdoors.”
SAHC is grateful to Roberts & Stevens, Attorneys at Law and Highland Brewing Company for sponsoring the 2024 SAHC Winter Hiking Challenge. Please note, the Challenge signup fee is a fundraiser to help support conservation efforts; you DO NOT have to pay to hike public trails. More information and registration link at Appalachian.org.