Gov. Pat McCrory and North Carolina State Parks have challenged all residents and visitors of North Carolina to join a new health and wellness program that encourages them to complete 100 miles of hiking, walking, running, paddling, skating, rolling their wheelchairs or riding their horses within the state.

“From the mountains to the coast, nothing compares to North Carolina’s natural beauty, state parks and hiking trails,” Gov. McCrory said in announcing the initiative. “I am proud that together, our state passed the Connect NC bond package this year that will invest in our parks for future generations. The 100-Mile Challenge is a great opportunity to enjoy North Carolina’s proud outdoor heritage, to improve your health and best of all, have fun with family and friends.”

The new program aims to showcase the state’s naturally wonderful trails and waterways, with more than 1,200 miles of hiking trails at state parks including more than 600 completed miles of the Mountains to Sea State Trail.

“What a fantastic way to celebrate North Carolina’s wonderful natural resources, state parks and outdoor recreation areas,” said Natural and Cultural Resources secretary Susan Kluttz. “I encourage all North Carolinians to join us in the 100-Mile Challenge and team up to ‘Hike N.C.’ with your friends and family.”

Hiking enthusiasts and beginners alike are encouraged to sign up for an account at nc100miles.org. Users can keep track of their miles as they progress toward 100 miles, and earn digital badges along the way for exploring state parks, participating in events and reaching mileage milestones. For more information on the new program, visit the FAQ page at nc100miles.org.

The 100-mile challenge is part of the Hike N.C.! Program with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina. Launched this fall, Hike N.C.! is a series of more than 60 guided hikes, many of which will be in North Carolina state parks and will be led by state park rangers and other hiking experts. To learn more about the HikeN.C.! Program, visit GoHikeNC.com

– article submitted by North Carolina State Parks