Run for the Trees: Bob Ross-inspired virtual 5K supports State Parks
February 1, 2024
Columbia, S.C. – Run, walk, paddle, or roll to complete your Run for Trees: Happy Little 5K, a virtual race inspired by the late artist, Bob Ross, and his love for nature, taking place between Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 26).
South Carolina is one of nine states participating with the Bob Ross Company to host the race, which supports efforts to plant trees and protect forests in participating states. Racers can complete the 3.1-mile event anytime between April 22-26 on foot or by bike, skate, paddle, or mobility device, at any pace and any place outdoors.
Registration is $36 per person and each participant will receive a Happy Little 5K T-shirt, commemorative bib number, and a finishers medal. Shipping is included with registration. Participants are encouraged to register by April 1 to ensure their packet arrives before the virtual race week. Register here.
“South Carolina is full of happy trees – big trees, small trees, old trees, young trees – from the mountains to the coast, and you’ll find plenty of them in our beautiful state parks. You’ll also find a whole lot of people who are passionate about protecting and advancing our natural spaces,” said Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “Last year was South Carolina State Park's first time participating in the Happy Little 5K, and we raised more than $5,000 to help restore and preserve native trees and plants in our state parks for future generations. We hope to see even more participation in this fun event this year.”
Since it started in 2004, the Happy Little 5K program has produced more than 100,000 native plants, shrubs, and trees.
“The official Bob Ross 5K is probably our most favorite initiative,” says Joan Kowalski, president of Bob Ross Company. “It’s the perfect blend of everything Bob held dear; nature, taking care of the environment, and happy trees too of course. He would have been so pleased to see how it’s getting so popular around the world.”
Plan your next adventure in a South Carolina State Park at southcarolinaparks.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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View and download images of trails and activities in South Carolina State Parks here.