- Participants are responsible for self-tracking & self-recording, electronic tracking devices are highly encouraged; recommended applications are:
- Strava, Map My Ride, Map My Hike, Komoot, CyclemeterGPS, All Trails, and others.
- All distance-tracking data must be submitted to ODR either throughout the duration of the challenge but latest by October 8 to qualify for distance awards; late submissions are not accepted.
- Eligible Participant with the Highest Mileage Wins a 3-Night Stay at an AFRC in Seoul or Germany!
- Registration Opens April 1, register by visiting or calling Outdoor Recreation at +1 (706) 545-7978
- (Registrations processed after May 1 will begin tracking day-of registration; back-dating is not permitted.)
- $50 participation fee per Individual or Family/Group
- Registration open to all eligible ID card holders, register as:
- Individual
- Family/Group
- Family or group registrations receive only ONE jersey per group registration.
- Registered individuals, families, or groups can purchase additional t-shirts for $45 each.
- ODR will collect all registrations and sizes at the end of August to guarantee your custom t-shirt. (Completion of the challenge is not required to receive the t-shirt.)
- Please note that awards are limited to one medal or patch per paid registration, applicable to each individual or family. Families may purchase additional medals or patches for family members at an additional cost.
- Earn exclusive medals or patches
- Receive a custom T‑shirt
- Build fitness and explore your local trails
- Join group hikes and community events
- Help your garrison compete for the 2026 ODR Challenge Trophy
Get Outside. Get Moving. Earn Your Achievement.
The 2026 Army Outdoor Recreation (ODR) Hiking Challenge is your chance to explore the outdoors, build fitness, and earn exclusive awards—all while representing your garrison in an Army MWR wide event.
Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on an unforgettable adventure! This thrilling, Army-wide event is open to all eligible MWR patrons and spans five exhilarating months in the Spring/Summer of 2026. It's your chance to enjoy a meaningful, safe, and fun-filled experience while boosting your physical fitness in the great outdoors!
Whether you're a family looking for a bonding experience or a solo hiker seeking solitude, this challenge is for you! Choose your own path and set your own pace—hike with a group or venture out on your own. Track your progress as you decide when, where, and how long to explore the trails. Or, join ODR for one of their exciting hiking trips!
Participants, whether individuals, families, or groups, will combine their total distances to earn fantastic rewards. Engage in outdoor hikes to accumulate 25 kilometers (15.53 miles), 50 kilometers (31.06 miles), and 100 kilometers (62.13 miles) to earn three stunning commemorative patches. Each patch represents a completed distance and together they form a magnificent large scene. Plus, every hiker will receive a custom participation t-shirt to celebrate their achievement!
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. Let's hit the trails and make 2026 a year to remember!
CHALLENGE DETAILS
Challenge Tracking Period:
May 1 - September 30
Tracking begins May 1 - Begin logging distances starting May 1!
(Registrations processed after May 1 will begin tracking day-of registration; back-dating is not permitted.)
Individual or Family Participation
You choose how to take on the Challenge:
Individual
Earn your own jersey/T‑shirt and awards
Track and submit only your personal distances
Families/Groups
Combine distances as a team
One jersey/T‑shirt and one award set per registration
Additional apparel may be purchased for $45 each
Note: You must choose either Individual or Family for the entire challenge period.
Challenge completion
Complete cumulative outdoor hikes to earn patches:
25 km – Patch
50 km – Patch
100 km – Patch
All three combine into a single scenic display!
REGISTRATION DETAILS
PARTICIAPTION PATCHES &
T-SHIRT DETAILS
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Participants are responsible for their own gear. Only outdoor hikes count toward hiking distances. ODR encourages use of their guided programs. Sportsmanship is mandatory—unsafe or disrespectful behavior may result in disqualification.
Contact Outdoor Recreation for any questions or more details at +1 (706) 366-3338.
