More than 12,000 people complete the Metro Parks Fall Hiking Spree every year, but only 12 hikers have finished the series in each of its 50 years.
The park district invited the dynamic dozen to F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm (1828 Smith Rd., Akron) for a group photo Monday, November 25.
“They are ambassadors,” spokesperson Nathan Eppink said. “The miles they have walked, the things they have seen, it’s incredible.”
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The three-month spree was started in 1964 to encourage residents to explore Summit County’s Metro Parks. This year only, the park district is allowing visitors to earn spree credit on the trails through December 15.
The 50-year hikers include George Figel, Frank and Amy Mitch, Jennie Pier, Mildred Poole and Neva Ucker, all of Akron; Nancy Grof of Barberton; Eileene Ball of Clinton; Bill Barnes of Copley; Joan Haby and Alice Ryne of Cuyahoga Falls; and Bert Szabo of Munroe Falls.
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A first-year hiker earns a hiking staff and shield. A veteran hiker earns a shield. Rewards are free to Summit County residents. Out-of-county residents pay to receive their awards ($10/first-year; $5/veteran).
Hiking forms are available online at summitmetroparks.org, the visitors center at F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm, the park district's administrative offices (975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron) and all Acme Fresh Market stores. Forms can be redeemed through March 31, 2014.
For more information, visit summitmetroparks.org or call 330-865-8065.