The MetroParks Trails Challenge makes a highly-anticipated return for 2024, bringing with it a range of exciting new trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. From hiking and cycling to mountain biking, paddling, and horseback riding, participants have until October 31st to conquer as many of the 28 trails as possible, with the opportunity to win exciting prizes. The challenge offers a diverse selection of trails, catering to various skill levels and interests. Best of all, participation is absolutely free.
To make tracking progress effortless, participants can utilize the user-friendly MetroParks mobile app. This app allows users to monitor their accomplishments in real-time. Those who prefer to keep track manually can download the Trails Log from metroparks.org/trailschallenge.
Located within Five Rivers MetroParks’ stunning locations, there are 160 miles of natural surface trails available for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Additionally, the greater Dayton region boasts over 340 miles of paved recreation trails, making it the largest paved trail network in the nation. The area is also home to a remarkable 270 miles of scenic river corridor, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.
In 2023, the Trails Challenge saw hundreds of participants collectively completing a staggering 6,163 trails, amounting to an impressive 11,134 miles of human-powered travel. To put this into perspective, it’s a distance greater than the span from Antarctica to the United States.
Here’s how you can be a part of this exciting event:
- Visit metroparks.org/trailschallenge to register, access the 2024 MetroParks Trails Log, and gather more information about the challenge.
- Hike, bike, ride, paddle, or horseback ride through the designated trails in any order and at your own convenience. Enhance your understanding of each trail by utilizing the MetroParks mobile app, where you can find specific challenges for each trail. If you haven’t downloaded the app yet, it is available for free at metroparks.org/mobile.
- Monitor and track your progress effortlessly using the mobile app. The challenge is open to everyone, including children.
- Ensure eligibility for prizes by submitting your trails log no later than October 31st at metroparks.org/trailschallenge.
Now, let’s talk about the enticing prizes awaiting participants:
By completing just one trail, you are automatically entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a local outdoor gear or bike shop of your choice. Each trail completed grants you an additional entry, so those who conquer all 28 trails have an incredible 28 chances to win.
Young adventurers aged 14 and under, who complete at least one trail, will be entered into a draw to win a Kids Adventure Pack, equipped with cool outdoor gear. Similarly, each trail completed earns them an entry.
Moreover, everyone who successfully completes a minimum of 18 trails will receive a MetroParks Trails Challenge sticker. Additionally, 100 individuals who conquer at least 18 trails will be randomly selected to receive a MetroParks Trails Challenge T-Shirt.
Winners will be notified via email or phone, with prizes distributed after October 31st.
Planning ahead is crucial for a seamless Trails Challenge experience:
Please note that some of the trails are segments of larger trail systems, meaning participants may need to hike, bike, or shuttle back to their starting point. On the other hand, certain trails form loops, starting and ending at the same location. These details can be found in the trail log.
While some trails may require specialized gear like a mountain bike or kayak, it’s worth mentioning that 22 out of the 28 trails can be explored by simply walking, hiking, running, or jogging. Those in need of equipment can register for programs like Try Mountain Biking at metroparks.org/programs-events-finder. These programs allow participants to borrow the necessary gear to complete the respective trails.
For safety purposes, participants are reminded to use the appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets, during their adventures.
Stay updated on trail conditions by visiting MetroParks’ alerts page at metroparks.org/alerts, the Miami Conservancy District’s Trail Conditions page, or the Miami Valley Trails’ alerts page.
With the MetroParks Trails Challenge, embark on an unforgettable journey, explore new trails, and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of nature. Register now at metroparks.org/trailschallenge and take the first step towards experiencing the thrill of outdoor adventure.
