January 15, 2021 – The 50th anniversary of El Paso County Parks kicks off with the “50K for 50 Years” hiking series. Participants are invited to hike 50 kilometers of trails at seven different Parks throughout the County.
“We are excited to extend this invitation to the citizens of El Paso County and anyone who wants stretch their legs and get out in the great outdoors,” said Ross Williams, El Paso County Parks Planner. “In the past, these hikes have proven to be very popular, and often times, there’s a waiting list to join.”
The first guided hike is scheduled for February 6, 2021 at the Paint Mines Interpretive Park. Citizens may also participate independently and are encouraged to photograph their adventures and share on social media using the hash tag: #EPCParks50Years.
50K for 50 Years hiking series locations and dates of guided hikes:
- Paint Mines Interpretive Park | February 6 | Length: 3K
- Homestead Ranch Regional Park | April 10 | Length: 5K
- Palmer Divide Trail | May 22 | Length: 6K
- Black Forest Regional Park | June 5 | Length: 3K
- Jones Park | July 23 | Length: 14K
- Pineries Open Space | September 17 | Length: 14K
- Kane Ranch Open Space | November 20 | Length: 5K
“This hike series is a great chance to get outside in our parks and open spaces, learn a little about the park, hear about upcoming projects and improvements, and best of all, get some much-needed exercise in 2021,” said Williams.
Individuals are encouraged to register for the series and pledge to complete the series by December 1, 2021. Registration and more information about the guided hikes can be completed at https://communityservices.elpasoco.com/50k-50-years/. Registered series finishers will receive a commemorative neck gator.
When hiking, please follow physical distancing recommendations and wear a mask if you are not able to stay six (6) feet away from others. Please consider visiting parks during off hours and if you reach an area that has a full parking lot, try to find somewhere else to recreate.
For more information please contact Theresa Odello, El Paso County Recreation Coordinator at theresaodello@elpasoco.com or call 719-520-6977.