With more than 1,000 springs in the state, Florida’s aquifer system is vital in providing a habitat for our unique flora and fauna. Fanning Springs State Park serves an important role in this network, producing 65 million gallons of water a day, while Manatee Springs provides well over 80 million gallons daily. The Nature Coast State Trail traverses several communities and covers over 32 miles of paved trail. Even before the parks were established, these areas along the Suwannee River served the community as swimming holes, place for rest and relaxation, habitats for an abundance of species and as a source of food and water.

The Spring for the Springs Virtual Challenge will be a month-long mileage challenge (run, walk, hike). The goal is to get as many miles as you possibly can. Really there is no correct amount. This challenge will allow you to set your own goal and work at your own pace. Participants will be asked to track their mileage while visiting one or all three of the parks and upload their miles within 48 hours of their visit. Proof can be a picture of your watch, copy of your Strava, Garmin Connect, Map My Hike, Run Keeper, etc. Just something that is proving that you actually ran, walked, or hiked those miles. The culmination of the challenge will reward participants with a t-shirt and awesome finishers medal!

This event listing provided for the Trenton community events calendar. Community events are not associated with or sponsored by AARP, but may be of interest to you. If you have an event to share, let us know!

Images provided by AmericanTowns.com, Ticketmaster