Lake County Challenge Offers Incentives To Hikers

The Lake County Forest Preserve's annual Hike Lake County (HLC) challenge began this week.

The program, sponsored by Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, encourages participants to get outside and hike trails they may not have visited before. Those who complete the challenge earn a free commemorative shield for their hiking stick. Each year features new trails and a colorful new shield.

To complete the challenge, participants must hike seven out of 12 designated trails by Nov. 30. One of the seven trails can be a Wild Card trail of the participant’s choice. Hikers can track their progress on "Hike Lake County" trails, download a travel log and record each hike with the date and their initials. Those who submit their travel log by Jan. 31 will receive a shield.

New this year, hikers complete the HLC challenge on their iPhone or Android smartphone with the . A Facebook, Twitter or Foursquare account is required to enable check-in. Those who their smartphone check-ins by Jan. 31 will receive a free shield. 

Hikers are also encouraged to take their dog along on the seven trails and record their dog's name on the travel log or on Lake County Forest Preserve’s Facebook wall via smartphone. Those who turn in their log or show staff their check-ins will receive a commemorative dog tag (up to three dogs) for their pet. HLC dog collars can be purchased for $5.

Visit the Hike Lake County website for program details and trail maps for this year's designated hikes.

— Submitted by the Lake County Forest Preserve District.