Hikers, bikers, climbers, kayakers, and runners lovers of ANY outdoor activity, I am talking to YOU!
The Tenn Green Land Conservancy is sponsoring a HIKE-A-THON event that begins April 1, 2024 and runs through April 30, 2024. (Check out the rules/regulations at your convenience.)
Sorry for the late notice, I just found out about it a few days ago, but hey, at least there’s some time left in April, right?
They have a number of scheduled in-person activities that you can participate in either individually or as a team.
Or, if you’d prefer, you can do your own thing either individually or as part of a team when and where you choose. (If you do choose that option, it is recommended that you document your activities within two days of completion on the sponsors website to ensure you receive credit for the activities you participate in.)
Now, what if I told you these events also gives you an opportunity to raise money to help the local environment in Tennessee at the same time?
Do I have your attention yet?
As an added bonus, the event is managed virtually so again you can participate at the times/places you choose. Doesn’t that sound exciting?
According to their website, the proceeds raised by this organization support “the protection of Tennessee’s wildlife, land, and water” and it encourages people of ALL ages and abilities to get outside for a chance to win some awesome prizes. (As I scanned the list of potential prizes I couldn’t help but notice that a few of them were donated by a sponsor of The Contributor, Edley’s BBQ.)
There are also several non-traditional categories in this competition like: Most Overall Adventurers, Most Unique Donors, Best Team Name etc.
There are even categories specifically for seniors and people with disabilities, (so you can’t use that as an excuse not to at least try.)
There’s also a photography competition for all you shutterbugs out there! On that note, if you choose to do that, please do so safely! DO NOT injure yourself or worse trying to get the “perfect shot.”
Their website even has a Tennessee Treasure Hunt card that participants are encouraged to download. If you complete 10 or more challenges, you’re eligible to win a special prize!
So what are the some of the activities listed on the card?
- Visit A Waterfall
- Explore A New Area
- Try A New Adventure Activity
- Visit A State Natural Area
- Sit By A Creek or Steam
- Enjoy A Sunrise/Sunset While On An Adventure
- Bring A Friend On An Adventure
These are just a few examples. There are a total of 16 activities to choose from.
For those who are NOT into any of the aforementioned activities, maybe you think this article’s NOT for you, PLEASE WAIT!
Let me assure you I AM NOT the outdoorsy type myself. I have a disability (cerebral palsy), so activities like these have ALWAYS been virtually impossible for me because I use a wheelchair on a regular basis.
So why the interest now?
Recently several Tennessee State Parks announced all-terrain wheelchairs would be made available for use to adults and children free of charge so that people with disabilities could experience the beauty of many of the green spaces Tennessee has to offer.
These chairs can be operated either independently or by a caretaker. (It is recommended that you call to reserve them in advance.)
Locations in Middle Tennessee Include:
- Cumberland Mountain State Park
- Cummins Falls State Park
- Henry Horton State Park
- Long Hunter State Park
- Radnor Lake State Park
- Tims Ford State Park
There are other locations that have the wheelchairs available in both East and West Tennessee. (See tnstateparks.com for a complete list.)
I was also inspired by a woman named Minda Dentler who was paralyzed as an infant in India after contracting polio.
Though she was in a wheelchair, she had surgeries that have allowed her to walk with braces and crutches. (I can relate.)
She recently competed in the Ironman World Championship Triathlon (that involves swimming, biking, and running). She even wrote a book about dealing with her disability entitled, “The Girl Who Figured It Out.”
Now that’s impressive, or at least I think so!
Don’t get me wrong, I’m NOT going to sign up for anything as rigorous as a triathlon, but I wouldn’t mind trying something new, exploring a new area, or even seeking out a change of scenery. It might be just what the doctor ordered for me right now.
Tennessee has SO many interesting, and amazing things to see and do. Why not take time — make time — to appreciate them?
There are advantages to participating in activities like this. It can be good for your physical, mental, and emotional health.
So how ‘bout it, are you willing to give something like this a try?
As for me, I’m still trying to weigh ALL the options available to me, and go from there, but one thing is sure, if/when I do, you can read all about my adventures in the pages of The Contributor!