Join the Cleveland Metroparks Trail Challenge now through September 30 by completing 10 designated trails to improve your heart health and earn prizes.
March 16, 2026
The 2026 Cleveland Metroparks Trail Challenge
Spring is here—and it’s the perfect time to get moving.
MetroHealth and Cleveland Metroparks are continuing their long-standing partnership to support a healthier community through the 2026 Trail Challenge, which launched March 1. The Trail Challenge is a fun, flexible way to boost your heart health while exploring some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in Northeast Ohio.
“The Trail Challenge invites guests to experience the beauty and diversity of our park system in a meaningful way,” said Brian M. Zimmerman, Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Metroparks. “As participants explore our diverse trails and set personal goals, they also foster a deeper appreciation for conservation and the importance of protecting these natural spaces for future generations.”
Trails span diverse landscapes, from lakefront paths to forested routes. Designed to promote physical activity, mental wellness, and outdoor exploration, the Trail Challenge supports inclusive opportunities for recreation. Cleveland Metroparks Action Trackchair can be reserved by participants with limited mobility during specific staff-led programs, helping them in completing the challenge.
How the Trail Challenge Works
Complete 10 designated trails in 10 different Cleveland Metroparks reservations March through September 30. You can bike, hike, run, walk, paddle, skate or ride — whatever gets you moving. Trails can be completed on your own or by joining a staff-led program.
Finish 10 trails and you’ll receive a 2026 Trail Challenge sticker and prize!
Looking for even more adventure? Visit all 18 Cleveland Metroparks reservations during the challenge period (for any activity or event) and earn a 25% off coupon for any Cleveland Metroparks Nature Shop.
Sign up and find the list of designated trails and program details at metroparks.org/trailchallenge.
Add Health Talks to Your Trail Count
Here’s another way to take part: Attend an in person MetroHealth Be SimplyWell Health Talk. Each Health Talk counts as one trail completion (up to five total). It’s a great way to learn practical health tips while working toward your challenge goal.
View upcoming in-person talks at: metrohealth.org/health-talks
Move Your Way
Do the challenge solo for some peaceful time in nature. Invite a friend. Bring your family. Try a new reservation you’ve never explored. However you participate, every step supports your heart health.
“Access to trails and greenspace is essential to the overall well-being of our community,” said Christine Alexander-Rager, MD, President and CEO of The MetroHealth System. “We’re proud to support initiatives like the annual Trail Challenge, which inspire individuals and families to get moving, ease stress, and develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.”
Grab your shoes, scan the trail list and start collecting your stamps. Spring is calling.
Your Trail Challenge Questions Answered
Q. How do I do the 2026 Trail Challenge?
A. You finish the challenge by doing 10 different trails in 10 Cleveland Metroparks locations between March 1 and September 30. You can walk, run, bike, skate, paddle, or ride—whatever you like. You can go on your own or join a staff-led program.
Q. What do I get for completing the challenge?
A. When you finish 10 trails, you get a 2026 Trail Challenge sticker and a prize. If you visit all 18 park locations for any activity or event, you also get a 25% off coupon for a Cleveland Metroparks Nature Shop.
Q. Can Health Talks count as a trail?
A. Yes! If you go to an in‑person MetroHealth Be SimplyWell Health Talk, it counts as one trail. You can count up to five talks toward your total.
