Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K returns to Ohio

        Lace up your sneakers, hop on your bike, or grab a paddle. However you move, you can join the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) for the annual Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K.
        This one-of-a-kind event, inspired by iconic artist Bob Ross, invites participants to “make some happy little trees” by supporting tree planting and forest conservation efforts at Ohio state parks.
        “Ohio has so many beautiful outdoor options that we can enjoy,” said ODNR director Mary Mertz. “By participating in this virtual race, Ohioans can take in that beauty while also contributing to it being here for future generations to enjoy as we work together to keep our trees growing.”
        From April 19-27, registered participants can complete their 3.1-mile journey outdoors, on foot, wheels, or water. This flexible event allows participants to run, walk, skate, paddle or roll toward the finish line from any location. There’s no “wrong path” when it comes to supporting Ohio's forests.
        Sign up by April 1 to ensure that a race packet arrives before the event. Registration will remain open until April 15 or while supplies last. Race packets will begin shipping on March 1 and will include the Happy Little t-shirt, commemorative bib, and finisher’s medal. For every registrant that designates Ohio as their home state, ODNR’s Division of Parks and Watercraft is provided a portion of the registration fee for tree planning events.
        After completing the 5K, participants are encouraged (but not required) to submit photos and results to showcase their adventure. Photo submission instructions are emailed to those who register. Submissions will be accepted the weekend before Earth Day (April 22) and the weekend after Arbor Day (April 25), giving everyone plenty of time to “paint a picture” of their outdoor experience.
        As Ross stated, “There are no mistakes, just happy little trees,” and with each registration, participants are helping forests grow stronger. Since its inception in 2004, the Happy Little 5K program has produced more than 100,000 native plants, shrubs, and trees. The program spans multiple states, including Ohio.
        Visit ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/find-a-trail/ohio-trails/happy-little-5k for more details.
        For more information on Ohio’s State Parks and the many outdoor adventures they offer, visit ohiostateparks.gov. Stay connected with Ohio State Parks on Facebook and Instagram to discover more opportunities to explore and protect the great outdoors.