*** Update ***
As of May 13 this program is now sold out. Thanks to the 5,000 participants who made this a record breaking year. Online and phone registration and tshirts are no longer available. If you would like to participate, you may download a PDF of the Trails Challenge Booklet (72 pages, 6.66 MB). Return your form at the end of the year to receive your commemorative pin.

The East Bay Regional Park District is again offering its most popular hiking program, the Trails Challenge. This marks the 15th Anniversary of this self-guided hiking program. The highlight of the Trails Challenge is the featured booklet, which showcases 20 of the best hikes in the Park District determined by staff, volunteers, and frequent trail users. Each hike is described in a two-page park and trail overview that includes trail features, interesting historic or nature facts, driving directions, and a trail map. The booklet also includes helpful guidelines and tips on trail etiquette and safety.

During the spring and summer, Park District naturalists lead Trails Challenge group hikes on the weekends. Dates and locations are listed inside the booklet. The naturalists teach about history, geology, and nature study. To complete the Trails Challenge, participants should either complete five of the hikes listed, or mileage totaling 26.2 miles, by December 1st.

This year's Trail Challenge focuses on the theme of "watersheds". In the booklet, you'll find information on water cycles, wildlife found in various habitats, and the importance of water issues. Many of the hikes go along creeks, lakes and streams, or have views of water.

Kaiser Permanente is a major sponsor of the 15th Anniversary Trails Challenge.

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