Get active: Hard Rocks Hiking Challenge returns

By Taylor Hale
PORTAGE COUNTY – Active Portage County is asking locals to get up and get outside again this year. The sixth Active Portage County annual Hard Rocks Hiking Challenge is slated to take place on Sept. 25 at Standing Rocks County Park in Stevens Point.
Participants select from three distance options during their trek, 5.2 miles, 8.2 miles, or 10 miles, through the trails at Standing Rocks. There will be rest-located stops along the way, followed by a finish line pancake brunch.
“Standing Rocks is one of central Wisconsin’s best-kept secrets,” said John Jury, Active Portage County board member. “Many people think that Portage County is flat, and it is for the most part, but Standing Rocks is quite hilly – which provides a perfect backdrop for this challenge.”
Entry is $20 if registered by Sept. 3 and $30 after. Participants registering before Sept. 3 can order an optional long-sleeved commemorative tech t-shirt for an additional $12. For the safety of all participants and due to the terrain in the park, no strollers or pets will be allowed.
“Like Walk Wisconsin and other Active Portage County events, the hike is not a race, but rather a challenge that keeps people moving and active throughout the year,” Jury added.
For more information and online registration, go to ActivePortageCounty.com or call 715-344-2556.