The PA Parks and Forests Foundation Thursday invited Pennsylvanians to join its sixth annual Great Pennsylvania Outdoor Challenge.

The GPOC encourages participants to seek adventure, achieve better fitness, try healthier eating or a new outdoor pursuit, or just commit to simple enjoyment of Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests.

“Participants can meet challenges on their own or as a group—the idea is to get out there and see what you can accomplish,” PPFF President Marci Mowery said.  “The GPOC is designed to be fun for individuals of all ages and abilities, as well as families. It’s a great way to learn more about your state parks and forests. Our goal is to support and motivate Pennsylvanians to get out and get moving.”

The Challenge runs from May 9 to October 24, but participants can join at any time. It’s free to join—registrants receive a copy of the Get Movin' PA brochure to track their progress and a weekly email with tips and ideas on how to succeed, fun places to go and things to do. Although there’s no cost to participate, a copy of the Pennsylvania State Parks and State Forests Passport is a great companion to the Challenge.

“The Passport also is a terrific guide to our state parks and forests and their assets and features,” Mowery said.

The interactive website includes information about the weekly themes, a statewide events calendar, and a forum to connect with other participants and share photographs. Challengers can also win prizes for participating, including gift cards, fitness equipment, caps, T-shirts and other items.

Pennsylvanians can register for the Challenge at the Great Pennsylvania Outdoor Challenge website.

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