Join Friends to Embrace the Warm Weather, Get Active

Hit the trails starting this spring by joining AARP in St. Louis’ eighth annual Outdoor Adventure Group. The free hiking and biking events are held monthly from April through November and explore the St. Louis region.

The first two Saturday events are a hike at Lone Elk Park in St. Louis County on April 1 and a bike ride at Creve Coeur Lake Park on May 20. Each outing runs from about 9 a.m. until noon and usually draws 20 to 50 participants, says Sheila Holm, AARP in St. Louis community outreach director.

Hikes take place in county or state parks and typically extend about 2 miles, while the biking events cover 15 to 20 miles of trails. Cycling participants will get a set of complimentary bike lights and a travel bag; hikers will receive a free backpack and reflectors.

“It’s a great way to work on your fitness and meet new friends,” says Dessa Paris-Gant, 61, of St. Louis, the lead volunteer who organizes and leads the rides.

Other volunteer “ride marshals” help keep the group together. Paris-Gant says she hopes to hold at least six rides this year if weather permits.

Registration is required. Go to aarp.org/stlouis for more information and to register.

—Tim Poor