2023 WNY Urban Treks Challenge

The Western New York Urban Treks Challenge is designed to give people an opportunity to visit some of well-known and little-known urban parks. Along with hiking the trails, the trail material will educate participants on parks history and local flora and fauna to spot along the trail.

The WNY Urban Treks Challenge includes 16 treks, each with a unique landmark. The landmarks include; monuments, bridges, and trees.  Each park has a highlighted ‘Suggested Trail” that takes you past each Challenge Landmark. This year’s treks are:

CHALLENGE RULES:

1. Complete twelve (12) of sixteen (16) treks between June 15 and October 15, 2023 inclusive. 
2. Take a selfie at the Challenge landmark at each park. 
3. Upload your picture to the submission page. https://outsidechronicles.com/treks
   
   If you do not want your picture on social media, let us know or just take a picture of the landmark.
4. (Optional) Post your picture to WNY Urban Treks Facebook Group* or Instagram. (use hashtags #WNYTreks. Tag @outsidechronicles).
   * registration code required to join

1. Register

Complete the registration form and submit your registration fee*.

Individual: $20
Family: $40 (up to 4 members)

*The registration fee is used to cover the cost of Challenge prizes (patches and stickers) and expenses. All profits from trekker registrations will be donated to the Black Rock Riverside Alliance.

The BRRAlliance is a not for profit dedicated to improving the quality of life for those that live and work in the northwest corner of Buffalo.  They also have been diligently working to educate, inform and engage residents in the Western New York region on the importance and benefits of planting to sustain pollinators and wildlife.

2. Download Challenge Packet

After your registration and payment have been verified, you will be e-mailed a link to the WNY Urban Treks Challenge packet. The packet contains information about the parks, maps, suggested routes, and landmark locations.

3. Hit the Trails!

Use the information in the Challenge packet to choose twelve (12) treks. Get out there and find the landmarks! Each map has a suggested path, but feel free to make your own trek.

Remember to take a garbage bag and leave the trails better than you found them.

4. Upload Your Photos

To complete your Challenge requirement, you will need to upload your selfie to https://outsidechronicles.com/treks.

We love to see your photos and stories! Post your pictures to the WNY Urban Treks Facebook Group* , or tag @outsidechronicles on Instagram. Use the hashtags #WNYTreks. You might even see your pictures and stories featured on our channels!
* registration code required to join

5. Follow Everyone’s Progress on the Challenge Board

Follow the Outside Chronicles Facebook Page for weekly updates.

Join the Outside Chronicles WNY Urban Treks Facebook Group*.

Check the the Live Challenge Board regularly.

* registration code required to join

6. Get some 2023 WNY Urban Treks Challenge Merch

Stay Safe, Stay Hydrated, and Explore!

FAQ

What does the Hiking Challenge Packet contain?
When you register, you will get the complete Challenge rules, a description of this year’s Challenge beneficiaries, a map and description for every hike with links to a digital map to use with Avenza Maps, check out a few sample pages here.

How long and hard are the treks?
The treks are between 1.5-5 miles. All of the treks are on paved or gravel roads. Start with the shorter treks and you will quickly be tackling longer treks.

Is the challenge family friendly or good for young children?
There are many treks that are very doable with young kids, they will surprise you. All of the locations are also stroller friendly. Just make sure there is ice cream after the trek. Also make sure the young ones are properly hydrated and have some snacks for the trails. And remember, it is all about getting outside together. If you have a meltdown and don’t make it to the challenge landmark, no problem, it counts!

Are there any family discounts?
Yes, the family rate is $40 and entitles the family to up to 4 patches upon completion of the Challenge. Just select Family at registration. Families will only need to upload one group picture.

Although we want all family members to go on every trek, we understand that things happen and this may not always be possible. We ask that most family members be present on a majority of trails. And those family members that show up for every hike can hold the patch over the slackers, just kidding!

Do I need to register by June 15?
No, you can register anytime between June 1 and October 15, 2023. You just need to complete 12 treks by October 15, 2023.

Are dogs welcome at the Challenge?
Absolutely. Please follow each parks’ rules when you bring your dog (i.e. they must be licensed, kept on a leash and you must clean up after them). Since this is our first year, we do not have a pet specific patch. You are more than welcome to register your pet.