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Kids & Family

Take the Challenge to Hike Lake County

Get out and about in Lake County and improve your overall health and well-being.

What a better way to take advantage of the scenic trails winding through the Lake County Forest Preserves than by taking the Hike Lake County Challenge. At each preserve, look for Hike Lake County signs at the trailhead to get you started on the right route. Complete just seven of the 12 designated hikes by November 30 and earn a free commemorative shield for your walking stick. Each year features new trails and a colorful new shield.

How it Works

To get started, you’ll need an official Travel Log to record each of your hikes. Then select your trail locations, grab your hiking shoes and head to the trails. Let your canine companion join in the fun and complete the hikes with you. Record their name in your Travel Log and they can earn a free commemorative dog tag. You can even purchase an optional Hike Lake County dog collar to hang it on.

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Mobile Check-In

Use your iPhone or Android smartphone to complete the challenge. Check-in* using the Lake County Forest Preserves mobile app, available for free in the Apple App Store or Android Play Store (search for "Lake County Forest Preserves"). Spot a rare bird or notice any plants in bloom? Share your hiking photos and nature comments with other hikers. *A Facebook account is required to enable mobile check-in.  

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To receive your free commemorative shield or dog tag, turn in to the Lake County Forest Preserves your completed Travel Log or show your mobile check-ins on your smartphone by January 31, 2013.

New this year: Scavenger Hunt

Download the Lake County Forest Preserves mobile app and use it to scan QR codes on signs hidden along the Hike Lake County trails to unlock secret content. Uncover facts about the preserves and watch for a special keyword. Record seven keywords in your Travel Log, and enter for a chance to win a Full Moon Night Hike at the preserve of your choosing, for a group of up to 10 people. Experience the preserves at night on a guided tour—you might even spy an owl in the oak forest!

Get Your Gear

Hike Lake County baseball jerseys, fitted tees, caps, shirts for Fido, and more are all available online via CafePress. Shop cafepress.com/LCFPD.

Additional Information

For Hike Lake County program details, trail maps and other information, visit their website at Lake County Forest Preserves.

-Submitted by the Lake Couny Forest Preserves

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