Step Into Adventure With The 2025 JoCo Fall Hiking Challenge

JOHNSTON COUNTY – The Friends of Johnston County Parks and local partners invite residents and visitors alike to lace up their boots and hit the trail for the 2025 JoCo Fall Hiking Challenge, running from October 1 through December 31, 2025.

With crisp autumn air, colorful foliage, and scenic views, it’s the perfect season to get outside and explore Johnston County’s natural beauty.

The Challenge is simple: complete a hike on any of the designated trails across Johnston County and submit your hike through the official Google Form for a chance to win door prizes. Each trail counts as one entry—and the more hikes you complete, the more chances you have to win. Participation is free, and no registration is required.

Featured Trails Include:
● Cole Plantation Loop, Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site (1.5 miles)
● Buffalo Creek Greenway, Smithfield (2.94 miles)
● Sam’s Branch Greenway, Clayton (1.25 miles)
● Loop Trail, Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center (2 miles)
● Bootleggers Loop, Williamson Nature Preserve (1 mile)
● Flower Hill Trail, Flower Hill Nature Preserve (1 mile)
● Clayton Riverwalk on the Neuse, Clayton (4 miles)
● Talking Tree Trail, Clemmons Educational State Forest (0.6 miles)
● Talking Rocks Trail, Clemmons Educational State Forest (0.8 miles)

Challenge Partners: Bentonville Battlefield State Historic Site, Clayton Parks and Recreation, Clemmons Educational State Forest, Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center, Triangle Land Conservancy, and Smithfield Parks and Recreation.

“We hope the Hiking Challenge inspires people to not only enjoy their favorite hikes, but also to branch out and explore trails they may not have visited before. Johnston County has several hidden gems, and this challenge is a great way to discover them while celebrating the best of the fall season.” said Jessica Rich, Friends of Johnston County Parks Chairman.

How It Works:

1. Hike any of the listed trails between October 1 and December 31.
2. Submit the hike on the Google Form.
3. Each unique hike = one entry into the prize drawing (one entry per trail).
   
   Multiple entries for the same trail will not be counted, but completing all the trails gives you the best shot at winning.
   
   Join the Friends for a group hike to kick-off the challenge on Saturday, October 11, from 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM at Clemmons Educational State Forest. It will start with the Talking Tree Trail (0.6 miles) – a well-maintained trail of packed dirt and gravel, perfect for all skill levels.
   
   After the group hike, hikers who want a little more adventure can continue (un-led) on their own to the Talking Rocks Trail (0.8 miles).
   Gather at the picnic shelter before the hike (signage will be in place).
   
   Lace up your shoes, bring some water, and enjoy the crisp fall air.