Bison Trot Challenge

For many Americans, Thanksgiving is a day to come together to indulge in a large, shared meal with family and friends giving thanks. And the next few days are to walk it off. Thankfully, there may be a park for that! On the long weekend around Thanksgiving, come out to a national park to run, walk, wheel, or waddle off your Thanksgiving meal—and make room for leftovers.

Inspire others to come out to enjoy their national parks by posting your Bison Trot experience on social media using #NPSBisonTrot the Thursday through Sunday around Thanksgiving.

Quick Note About Official Organized Events

Organized fun runs, sometimes called "turkey trots," are popular around the country this time of year. This Bison Trot activity is intended for individuals or small groups of family and friends with no equipment setup as a create-your-own informal option to encourage people to visit parks. More formal organized group events require special use permits in national parks when allowed within a park. 

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

Step 1: Pick a Park

Did you know there are more than 400 national parks of different shapes and sizes, many of which are in or within an hour of cities? Most have trails great for walking, running, or cycling, plus options of paved or unpaved trails. Some parks have water trails or places to paddle if that is more your style.

NPS App Tip: Open the NPS App to find the closest national parks to you.

NPS Photo

Step 2: Choose Your Challenge

Are you going to do the classic post-Thanksgiving run? Or do you want to walk or cycle instead? If your park has a river, lake or by the ocean, are you going to paddle instead? Use the park’s map to plan your route on the park trails. Some parks have year-round challenges you can participate in earning miles!

NPS App Tip: Many parks have specific walking, running, cycling, or paddling ideas under Things to Do or Self-Guided Activities.

NPS Photo

Step 3: Plan Ahead

Ideally, choose your trail and route ahead of time. Check ahead for rules, weather, conditions, potential closures, and what to bring. Thanksgiving weekend can also be busy, so earlier in the day may be better for this activity to beat the crowds. Find even more tips to hike (or run) smart on trails.

NPS App Tip: If you are worried about connectivity, download the NPS App for offline use before you head out to the park. That way, you have access to the park map and other tools even if your reception is spotty.

NPS / Nicole Segnini

Step 4: Step Off and Share!

Head out to your park and enjoy the trails! Make it a virtual trot by posting about your experience on social media using #NPSBisonTrot. Your prize for completing your Bison Trot: stunning views, good health, great company...

Courtesy of Stephanie Roulett

Participating Pets

Dogs—and even leash-loving cats—are welcome to patriciate in the Bison Trot too! It is important to check the park’s website for things to know before you go. Of the 400+ national parks, most allow pet visitors, but some have areas closed to pets primarily for safety and conservation concerns. Other common pet rules include holding your pet’s leash at all times, staying on trail, picking up poop, and maybe staying out of certain areas of the park. Find more info at nps.gov/pets.

More Resources

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  NPS App

  The free NPS App can help you find a park and specific places to go for your Bison Trot.

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  Hike Smart

  Whether going for a rough and tough wilderness hike or a casual stroll on a paved trail, get tips for a fun, safe time.

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  Healthy Parks Healthy People

  Parks can be a gateway to good health. Discover the health benefits of parks and healthy park opportunities for you!