- 2026 Biking & Hiking Challenge Registration Forms
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The 2026 Army Outdoor Recreation (ODR) Hiking & Biking 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. Whether you ride, hike, or do both, this five‑month challenge is designed for every skill level and every member of the MWR community.
What the Challenge Is
From 1 May – 30 September 2026, eligible MWR patrons can log their outdoor hiking and or cycling/biking distances to earn commemorative medals or patches. All participants receive a custom cycling jersey or custom hiking T‑shirt just for registering.
How to Join
1. Register with Alligator Lake Recreation Park
Sign up at Alligator Lake Recreation Park using your RecTrac household account. Proof of eligibility is required. T-shirt pick-up will also be at this location.
2. Pay the Registration Fee
- $50 per participant (hiking or biking)
- Includes one custom jersey or T‑shirt
- Completion of the challenge is not required to receive your apparel
3. Start Logging Your Miles
You may begin logging distances starting 1 May 2026, or from your actual registration date if you join later. No backdated mileage is allowed.
Challenge Options & Awards
Biking Challenge
Complete cumulative outdoor rides to earn medals:
- 250 km – Single medal
- 500 km – Single medal
- 1000 km – Two‑piece medal All three connect to form one large commemorative coin.
Hiking Challenge
Complete cumulative outdoor hikes to earn patches:
- 25 km – Patch
- 50 km – Patch
- 100 km – Patch All three combine into a single scenic display.
Eligible Participant with the Highest Mileage Wins a 3-Night Stay at an AFRC in Seoul or Germany!
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
Family/Group
- 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.
Tracking Your Distances
Participants are responsible for their own tracking. Electronic apps are encouraged, including:
- Strava
- Map My Ride / Map My Hike
- Komoot
- CyclemeterGPS
- AllTrails
Submit your total kilometers to ODR at least once per month (or as directed by your garrison). Final distances must be submitted by 8 October 2026.
Important Dates
- Challenge Begins: 1 May 2026
- Challenge Ends: 30 September 2026
- Final Distance Submission Deadline: 8 October 2026
- Garrison Participation Reporting Deadline: 30 October 2026
Equipment & Safety
Participants are responsible for their own gear. Traditional road, mountain, commuter, and e‑bikes are allowed. Only outdoor hikes count toward hiking distances. ODR encourages use of their checkout center, maintenance services, and guided programs.
Sportsmanship is mandatory—unsafe or disrespectful behavior may result in disqualification.
Why Participate?
- Earn exclusive medals or patches
- Receive a custom jersey or T‑shirt
- Build fitness and explore your local trails
- Join group rides/hikes and community events
- Help your garrison compete for the 2026 ODR Challenge Trophy
Cost
$50
