Spots are filling quickly for April's Run for the Trees: Happy Little (Virtual) 5K, the annual event supporting tree planting and forest protection efforts in state parks.
Now in its seventh year and with 18 states represented, this growing Bob Ross-inspired program is expected to have 14,000 participants in 2026.
“Run for the Trees continues to expand, which is incredibly exciting,” said Michelle O’Kelly, race director and fund developer for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “We’re so happy to welcome five new states this year."
When signing up, participants pick their state to represent. Registration closes April 1 – or earlier if the 14,000-participant cap is reached – to ensure timely shipping of race T-shirts, bibs and finisher medals.
Registrants pick their pace and place, anywhere outdoors, during the nine-day window that includes both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 24). The two in-person gatherings in Michigan are April 18 in Bay City and April 25 in Detroit.
“We encourage those who have registered to bring their family and friends to one of these in-person gatherings to run, walk or roll together,” O’Kelly said. “It’s an excellent chance to get outside and enjoy spring while also celebrating our love of trees. We’re so happy to have these opportunities to make this virtual event an in-person experience in a couple of areas of the state.”
Learn more and register for the event at Runsignup.com/bobross5k.
