Only 100 miles of hiking to earn a great prize!

LOGO-100-mile-color

New River Gorge National River 100 Mile Challenge Logo

If you resolved to get fit, get outdoors or see more of the Mountain State in 2016, this challenge is for you!

The National Park Service, Active Southern West Virginia and the YMCA of Southern WV are teaming up to celebrate 100 years of the National Park Service with this unique challenge.

And it’s easy to join– just jot down your distance every time you go hiking on the trails at the New River Gorge National River. A little extra incentive to get you up and going: once you reach 100 miles, you earn a special prize!

Don’t want to hike alone, or eager to meet new folks who share your love of nature? There are monthly group hikes at different locations in the park. There may even be some surprise hikes when the weather is nice. Just follow the New River Gorge National River Facebook for updates.

This is also your chance to hike the famed Endless Wall Trail. If you haven’t check out what USA Today Readers Voted #1 in the Top 10 National Park Hikes in 2015, grab your gear and go explore! The 2.4-mile walk is classified as “moderate” and zig-zags along a jagged cliff edge overlooking the echoing New River. Be sure to take your time and enjoy all of those breathtaking scenic overlooks.

You don’t have to be Bear Grylls to succeed at this challenge. Trails range from “easy” to “strenuous,” so it’s suited for all ages and skill levels.

What are you waiting for? Download that hike log and get outside!