“In my world, I meet the kindest and most amazing people. Sadly though, we’ll usually only grace each other’s presence once in a lifetime,” so says Erik Weihenmayer following his visit to Knoxville in fall 2024.
“Not so with Legacy Parks! Twelve years ago, I spoke at their Legacy Luncheon and was invited back this fall to rally the community around using our shared resources to create outdoor spaces and adventure experiences for all.
“Knoxville is a vibrant community made all the better by the profound work of the Legacy Parks Foundation.
“Since 2007, Legacy Parks has raised over $11 million for parks and open space, helped conserve 1,000 acres of forest and farmland, and added over 700 acres of parkland in Knox County. It goes to show that when we rope up with great people, we can do more than transform our own lives, we can transform the world!
“A special thanks to Executive Director Carol Evans, her staff and all the board of advisors who welcomed me back with open arms.
“Here’s a short newscast on the event for those interested.
Photos:
Me and my team celebrating with Legacy Parks Foundation. We are enjoying an adaptive day out on kayaks followed by our luncheon, presentation and reception in a beautiful green park with a stone pillared rotunda.
“There is also a really nice card that Legacy Parks made up for the occasion, which reads “A summit is so much more than a view. It is not just a place on a mountain. A summit exists in our hearts and minds as a symbol that we can transform our lives into whatever we choose them to be.”
Outdoor Knoxville
Start the new year right with a neighborhood run, walk or hike. There are nine events planned for Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Your best source for these opportunities and more is Legacy Parks’ Outdoor Knoxville events calendar, compiled by Elle Colquitt. Here.
Wednesday, January 1
5K Run and Walk: 9 a.m., Knoxville Track Club. Kids will run a one-mile course, out and back. Register here.
KTC Group Run: 6 p.m., Runners Market. Free. Info: Knoxville Track Club. All paces welcome. Distance options vary.
- Hike in Oak Ridge: 9 a.m. UT Arboretum at 865-483-3571. No pets please. Weather updates will be posted on Facebook if needed.
- Hike the Devil’s Racetrack at Cove Lake State Park. 9 a.m., free, 423-566-9701.
- Hike the Trout Lily Trail at Panther Creek State Park. Free. Info: Panther Creek State Park at 423-587-7046.
- Hike five miles at Fort Loudoun State Historic Park. 5:30 p.m. Ranger-guided. Free. Info: 423-420-2331.
- Hike three miles round trip to Emory Gap Falls at Frozen Head State Park. Free. Info: 423-346-3318.
- Hike the Harmon Loop at Norris Dam State Park. 10 a.m. 865-426-7461.
- Hike three miles at Seven Islands State Birding Park. 1 p.m. Free. Info: 715-630-6848.
