Many hikers would agree that the reward lies not in reaching the end of the trail, but rather in the journey itself. Even so, Hike Nova Scotia believes a reward at the end is great too and, to this end, it is pleased to announce the launch of the Hiker Distance Award program.

The program aims to motivate potential and current hikers to explore and enjoy the wonderful hiking, walking and snowshoe opportunities available in our beautiful province.

“We know that working toward a goal can often motivate people to become more active,” says Janet Barlow of Hike Nova Scotia. “So we figured supporting people to reach some distance milestones might encourage more new hikers to get out on the trails as well as reward the experienced hikers.”

The Hiker Distance Award program recognizes hikers for hiking, walking or snowshoeing significant distances within Nova Scotia over the course of a year.

Participants will tally their kilometres using a log book. Hikers who tally 150, 250 or 500 kilometres within one year, will receive a pin to commemorate their achievement.

For more details about the program, go to the Hike Nova Scotia website www.hikenovascotia.ca/distanceawards.

“While the reward – a pin – is rather small in relation to the accomplishment of hiking these distances, we feel the recognition and bragging rights are the real prize,” says Barlow. Those who earn the 150-, 250- or 500-kilometre pins will also have their names posted to Hike Nova Scotia’s honour roll.

Hike Nova Scotia, a nonprofit organization, encourages and promotes hiking, walking and snowshoeing throughout Nova Scotia. Membership in Hike NS means keeping up-to-date on the latest hiking news and having a say in its many projects. Hike NS is supported by the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness.

A good way to kick off tallying your hiking kilometres is to take part in one of a series of guided snowshoe events and hikes scheduled to take place this month. Hike Nova Scotia has a list of events on its website at www.hikenovascotia.ca.