If you’re excited about spooky season, you’re not alone. But there’s another season in play right now, too—it’s the exercising outside without feeling-like-you’re-going-to-die season, and we are here for it. Kansas City Parks and Recreation is so excited that they are back with Walktober to encourage people to get outside for a walk or run every Sunday.
Walktober isn’t just a prompt to walk. Each Sunday features a different urban trail. Each Sunday will feature a Plein Air Quick Paint Contest and commemorative Walktober buttons designed specifically for each trail by artist Kevin Worley for the first 200 participants. All events are free, but some may require registration.
In addition to getting the city moving, Walktober also introduces walkers to the unique features of our trails. This Sunday, the Riverfront Heritage Trail will take you past two memorials—one to the route that took enslaved people to the Free State of Kansas and one to the first tracks of the frontier railroad. Plus, BikeWalkKC will conduct free bicycle training, helmet giveaways for the first 40 participants, and drinks, snacks, trail maps, and giveaways.
Walktober takes place every Sunday in October, with walks at Riverfront Heritage Trail, Line Creek Trail, and the Rock Island Trail (Phase Two), culminating in an afternoon stroll through Union Cemetery. Costumes are encouraged, and treats will be available for youngsters on Halloween.
Find all the details about Walktober at kcparks.org. These events are free, but registration is encouraged.