Hiking Challenge
Explore the Triangle with TLC’s Hiking Challenge
Ready to hit the trails?
Visit each of TLC’s public nature preserves within a year (or trade one hike for any TLC event) to complete the Hiking Challenge and earn prizes along the way. With the addition of TLC’s newest nature preserve, Old Creedmoor, participants must now complete eight hikes to finish the challenge. Check out the updated details below (starting May 30, 2026) and start your adventure.
How it works
Anyone can participate in the Hiking Challenge! To get started, enroll in the challenge before logging any hikes. Participants must complete all eight hikes within one year of enrollment.
All completed hikes must be logged using the TLC Hiking Challenge Form within one week of the hike. Please note that hikes completed before you enroll are not eligible to be counted towards the Challenge. In addition to filling out the form, choose one of the following:
- Write a sentence in the Hike Log describing your hike.
- Post a photo of yourself on your hike on social media. Use the hashtag #HikeTLC and tag TLC on Instagram, Facebook, and/or LinkedIn.
- Email your hike photo to hikingchallenge@triangleland.org.
Challenge prizes
Participants who complete four challenge hikes will receive a TLC iron-on patch and a sticker for each preserve you’ve hiked so far. You can use these specially designed stickers, created by Durham-based artist Jade Shepherd, to keep track of your progress for the rest of the Challenge.
Non-TLC members: Participants who complete all eight hikes of the Challenge will receive a year’s TLC membership and a TLC prize pack that may include a TLC water bottle and/or a TLC canvas bag.
TLC members: Participants who complete all eight 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 Great Outdoor Provision Company.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I do the TLC Hiking Challenge?
It’s a fun way to challenge yourself, explore the Triangle, and win fun prizes! Complete four hikes to earn a unique TLC badge and finish the full Hiking Challenge to receive a TLC membership and prize pack.
I started the Challenge before May 30, 2026. Do I still need to complete eight hikes instead of six?
No. Anyone who has registered for the Hiking Challenge prior to May 30, 2026 will continue to follow the previous rules and will only need to complete six hikes to finish the Challenge. Those who register for the Challenge after this date will need to follow the new challenge rules and complete eight hikes.
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 four hikes for the TLC badge and after eight 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
