Three years ago, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon launched the 100 Missouri Miles Challenge after the state was named the Best Trails State by American Trails. Since then, the more than 26,800 Missourians who signed up to participate have logged more than five million miles.
The state offers almost 1000 miles of managed trails, and Missouri claims more than 500 miles of National Recreation Trails designated by the U.S. Department of Interior. According to Nixon’s office, the state lives up to its reputation as “Gateway to the West” with trails including the Lewis and Clark and Santa Fe National Historic Trails, Trail of Tears and the Pony Express, California and Oregon National Historic Trails beginning on the western border. Missouri is also home to the Katy Trail, the longest developed rail-trail in the nation. And Springfield offers many opportunities for walking and biking, including 68 miles ofOzark Greenways Trails.
You can still sign up to take the Challenge at mo.gov. Participants can also share adventures, post photos and learn about upcoming events by connecting with 100 Missouri Miles on Facebook and Twitter using #100MoMiles.
