20 Mar 2017 Durham, N.C.
The return of spring is the perfect time to get outside and check out what’s blooming across North Carolina. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross) and North Carolina State Parks announced today the return of Hike NC, the free hiking program that makes it easier to hike and enjoy nature regardless of age or experience level.
Hike NC’s spring season offers a series of more than 60 guided hikes across the state. Hikes give North Carolinians, who might otherwise be hesitant about exploring the outdoors, an opportunity to be active and focus on their health and well-being. Hike NC debuted in fall 2016, and is back due to overwhelming participation across North Carolina.
Hike NC is part of Blue Cross’ efforts to promote health and well-being among North Carolinians. Regular physical activity is shown to help control weight, improve mental health, increase stability and lower the risk of heart disease and cancer.
Spring hikes began in early March and run through mid-June. Residents can learn more about hikes in their area by viewing the full list at gohikenc.com. Visitors can find hikes by region and sign up for a hike that’s right for them, based on distance, time, location and level of trail difficulty. After people sign up online, they’ll simply need to show up, meet their guide and begin hiking.
Hike NC is a collaboration with leading hiking experts across the state. Guides from North Carolina State Parks will lead hikes and foster memorable experiences for hikers. Hike NC! is supported by North Carolina State Parks, Friends of North Carolina State Parks, North Carolina Recreation & Park Association, Great Outdoor Provision Co., Mast General Store and GetGoingNC.com. Joe Miller, author, avid hiker and Chief Exploration Officer at GetGoingNC, will lead hikes as well.
Residents can join the Hike NC conversation on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter using #HikeNC.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina improves the health and well-being of our customers and communities through innovative health care products, insurance, services and information to more than 3.9 million members, including approximately 1 million served on behalf of other Blue Plans. Since 1933, we have worked to make North Carolina a better place to live through our support of community organizations, programs and events that promote good health. We have been recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies by Ethisphere Institute every year since 2012. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Visit Blue Cross online at bcbsnc.com. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.