The Mountain Commerce Challenge, organized by Legacy Parks and Missy Kane, has added two more bonus adventures, because we’re having so much fun. We hike, bike and paddle to discover new places, socialize with fun folks, have fun and get fit. The 75-mile adventures are free for Friends of Legacy Parks or $10 per event for others.
Concord Park Hike: Monday, August 7, at 5:30 p.m. Missy will lead us on a leisurely 3-mile hike along the shores of Fort Loudon Lake. Register at Concord Park Hike for either event.
Cades Cove Bike Ride: Wednesday, August 23, at 5 p.m. Challenge yourself on the 11-mile bike ride around the pastoral Cades Cove Loop. The Cove is vehicle-free on Wednesdays. Participants must bring their own bike.
Meanwhile, here are three other neat events upcoming:
Tuesday, August 8
The Long Run: 6 p.m. Info: The Long Run at 865-851-7874. Run to Tom Black Track on the UT campus. Run easy or do the track workout adjustable to your pace and comfort level. Afterwards, relax on the patio with a free local draft beer. Details online.
Saturday, August 12
Hummingbird Festival: A Celebration of Wings: 6:30 a.m., Ijams Nature Center. Cost: members $10/non-members $15. Info: Ijams Nature Center at 865-577-4717. Learn all about your favorite winged creatures, from ruby-throated hummingbirds and other backyard birds to butterflies, bees and more. Join the festivities from 6:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Get Tickets.
K-Town on the River Triathlons: 8 a.m., Suttree Landing Park. Info: Personal Best Racing at 865-567-0358. Come TRI with PBR and the South Knox Collective as we traverse through the South Knoxville beauty for a sprint, Olympic, or half-iron distance triathlon. Register online.
And remember, there are dozens more events online at Outdoor Knoxville.
Carol Evans is executive director of Legacy Parks Foundation.