Looking for a new way to explore the wilderness? Check out the Dirty Dozen Wilderness Hike Challenge.To complete the challenge, hike at least 10 miles in each of the 12 designated wilderness areas in the southeastern United States by this September. The Dirty Dozen, launched last September, is part of the ongoing celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Wilderness Act, which was passed in 1964 and has preserved pristine lands across the country.
The Dirty Dozen Challenge is being orchestrated by The Wilderness Society’s Southern Appalachian Office and Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine — so far, more than 400 hikers have signed up.
“We’ve been amazed by the overwhelming interest in the challenge thus far,” said Brent Martin, regional director for The Wilderness Society based in Sylva. “The photos and hike descriptions we have received from hikers are inspiring and truly speak to the beauty and unique qualities of the designated wilderness areas within our region.”
“To complete the challenge — and earn prizes — hikers must finish the hikes and then submit information about each hike along with a photo.”