It's almost time to take a hike for hospice care

The annual Foothills Hike for Hospice is back for its 8th year.

On May 5th, you are able to take a hike to help the Foothills Country Hospice Society raise money for essential end-of-life care in the Foothills region.

"Our goal of raising $60,000 isn't just a number; it's a lifeline for those in need. Every dollar counts, bringing us closer to ensuring essential end-of-life care for our community," explained Events Coordinator Lindsey Dunham in a media release from March 12th.

This annual event helps terminally ill adults and their loved ones, by providing funding for necessary support and resources when it matters the most.

Not only do they have a 2k and a 5k Hike for Hospice happening along the paved Sheep River pathways in Okotoks, but this year they are including a 5k run known as the Hospice Hustle, which will run alongside the hiking routes.

"By introducing the new chip timed 5k run to our event, we're not only filling a gap in Okotoks' running scene, but we're also fostering a space where every step taken supports our mission of compassionate care for all," Dunham says.

The Sheep River trails are wheelchair and stroller accessible and dog friendly, so everyone is welcome to enjoy.

During the event, there will be aid stations, a photo booth, activities, food trucks, and other sources of enjoyment throughout the day.

For those who enter the 5k Hospice Hustle, you will receive a finisher medal, a t-shirt, a swag bag, and a chipped bib for the timed run.

Participants of the hikes will also receive a swag bag and t-shirt.

Kids 9 and under can register for a hike for free, whereas youth aged 10-17 can register for $10, and anyone 18 and over can register for a hike for $20.

Anyone aged 12 and older can sign up for the 5k Hustle Run for $35.

The event check-in and same-day registration begins at 10 a.m. on May 5th, with the 5k Hustle starting at 11.

Both the 2k and 5k hikes begin at 11:15.

The food trucks and activities will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

If taking a hike isn't your sort of thing, there are also sponsorship and donation opportunities to help the Hospice Society to achieve their goal.

For more information on how to register, donate, or become a sponsor, click here.