News Release

Hike to Health Announcement 2024

News Release Date: April 23, 2024

Contact: Kendra Barat, 501-620-6702

Hot Springs, AR – In partnership with CHI St. Vincent – a regional health network serving central and southwest Arkansas – Hot Springs National Park is thrilled to introduce a seasonal health promotion program series called “Hike to Health.” The first event will be held on Sat., April 27 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. at Whittington Park. 

Discover the health benefits of outdoor physical activity and the unique public health history of Hot Springs National Park alongside park rangers and CHI St. Vincent physicians. After a brief interpretive ranger talk, participants will have an opportunity to engage directly with a health professional from their community about a pertinent, rotating health topic. These discussions will be followed by a 1-2-mile guided “walk and talk” to put concept into action. 

The first “Hike to Health” event will feature Dr. Jason Pelton, an interventional cardiologist with the CHI St. Vincent Heart Clinic in Hot Springs. Dr. Pelton will discuss the benefits of regular physical activity on cardiovascular health.  

The “Hike to Health” program series is heavily influenced by the NPS Healthy Parks Healthy People program, which is a holistic approach to promoting the health and well-being of all species. “Hike to Health” seeks to improve the overall health of Hot Springs and Garland County residents by strengthening their connection to community-based health practitioners and their public lands as a resource for consistent healthy recreation. An additional “Hike to Health” event will be held later this spring, and two more will follow in the fall. These events are free and open to the public – all ages are welcome! No registration is required. 

For more information, please contact Park Ranger, Kendra Barat. 

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