This fall, Edward-Elmhurst Health is joining a group of local organizations to invite community residents to get outside and stay healthy with the Third Annual Healthy Driven Take a Hike! Challenge.

As participants discovered over the last two years of the Challenge, hiking is a great way for people of all ages to spend time outdoors and stay active. This year’s Take a Hike! Challenge co-sponsors include The Conservation Foundation, Elmhurst Park District, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise and Naperville Park District.

The challenge, which runs from Sept. 1 to Oct. 27, provides hiking insights, special programs and tips to improve and get the most out of each hike. Participation is free but registration is required to earn awards.

“Staying active and spending time in nature is a great way to stay physically and mentally healthy, and we’re thrilled to have our community organizations hiking with us again this year,” says Mary Lou Mastro, CEO, South Region, NorthShore – Edward-Elmhurst Health. “Physical activity like hiking brings a multitude of health benefits, including lower stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, lower body fat, improved bone density and closer relationships with family and friends.”

Participation is easy with 3 simple steps: 1) Sign up online. 2) Get out and hike from Sept. 1 to Oct. 27! 3) Turn in the Take a Hike! Tracker with 6 completed hikes to earn the Take a Hike! Trail Blaze Award.

Note: Hikes can be completed anywhere. Trails listed online are suggestions only. The Take a Hike! Trail Blaze Award includes either a commemorative pin, medallion or, for first time participants, a walking stick with a commemorative medallion. Start a collection—there will be a new design each year!

To register, sign up for weekly emails about special events, see an interactive hiking map and more, visit the Take a Hike! Challenge website at http://www.EEHealth.org/healthy-driven/take-a-hike.