Hiking Challenge
Explore the Triangle with TLC’s Hiking Challenge! Visit six public TLC nature preserves (or swap one hike for any outdoor TLC event) within a year to win fun prizes, including a special TLC badge and other merch.
How it works
- First, enroll in the challenge – you must do this before logging any completed hikes.
- Log your completed hikes on the TLC Hiking Challenge form.
- Participants may either complete hikes at six different TLC preserves or replace one hike with a TLC outdoor event at any preserve.
- You must complete the Hiking Challenge within one year of enrolling.
- Hikes must be logged within one week of completion. Hikes completed before enrollment are not eligible and cannot be counted towards those required for the Challenge.
- Anyone can participate in the Hiking Challenge.
Hike Submission Instructions (Choose One)
- Write a sentence in the Hike Log describing your hike.
- Post a photo of yourself on your hike on social media. For social media posts, use the hashtag #HikeTLC and mention us at TLC on Instagram. We are also on Facebook and LinkedIn.
- Email the photos to hikingchallenge@triangleland.org
- You can also share your hikes and photos using the interactive Hiking Project app. Search for a TLC nature preserve on Hiking Project to get detailed information about the preserve and its trail, including trail length, elevation, and photos.
Prizes for Completion
Participants who complete three of the Challenge hikes will receive a TLC iron-on patch.
Non-TLC Members: Participants who complete all six hikes of the Challenge will receive a year’s TLC membership and a TLC prize pack that may include a TLC water bottle, TLC canvas bag.
TLC Members: Participants who complete all six hikes of the Challenge will win a TLC prize pack that may include a TLC water bottle, TLC canvas bag, and a $25 gift card to the Great Outdoor Provision Company.
Frequently Asked
Why should I do the TLC Hiking Challenge?
It’s a fun way to challenge yourself, explore the Triangle, and win fun prizes! Complete three hikes to earn a unique TLC badge and finish the full Hiking Challenge to receive a TLC membership and prize pack.
Do I need to be a TLC member to participate?
No – the Hiking Challenge is open to everyone, no membership required. Complete it to enjoy member benefits for a year, including special access to events. If you join as a member before finishing, you’ll also earn the $25 gift card to Great Outdoor Provision Company.
Is there a time limit?
From the date you enroll, you have one year to complete the Hiking Challenge.
How will I know my progress in the challenge?
You’ll get an email when you’ve reached a prize level – after three hikes for the TLC badge and after six hikes for a membership and/or prize pack. Hike logs are updated at least once a month, so emails may take a little time to arrive.
When can I start counting my hikes toward the Hiking Challenge?
Log your hikes on the form within a week of completion to count towards the Hiking Challenge. Only hikes completed after you enroll are eligible.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes! Dogs are welcome at all TLC public nature preserves. Please keep pets leashed at all times and clean up after them.
Can kids and families participate?
Yes! The TLC Hiking Challenge is for people of all ages, and we encourage family and friends to join in. Each participant should register on this form and log their own hikes here. Parents may register and complete the hike-log for their children. For kids – be sure to check out our in-person Get Wild events at TLC preserves!
Can I hike and go to an event at the same TLC preserve and count it towards two of my six Hiking Challenge requirements?
Yes! You can replace one hike at a TLC nature preserve with attending a TLC-hosted outdoor event. For example, you may log Horton Grove Preserve twice – once for your own hike and once for attending a TLC event there.
If I have additional questions, who should I contact about the Hiking Challenge?
Please email Amaya Horner at ahorner@triangleland.org
