Go farther together exploring the DMV’s incredible trails while gearing up for REI’s annual Run Fest! Open to both groups and individuals, the challenge runs from March 1 to March 24, 2025.

Enjoy a local adventure, get active outdoors, and compete for exciting prizes—including: REI Gift Cards, Ciele Running Hats, and more for groups and for an individual.

Winners will be announced at the Every Mile Together Celebration at Red Bear Brewing Company on March 27, 2025. You must be present to win.

We’ll also re-launch Second Wind, a specialty beer from Red Bear Brewing in collaboration with REI. Proceeds from this India Pale Lager support WABA and the Capital Trails Coalition.

How to Participate

For Groups:

  1. Plan a run, walk, or other activity on a paved or natural surface trail in the Washington, DC metropolitan region between March 1 and March 24, 2025.
    • Select from any of the following trails:
      1. Anacostia River Trail
      2. Metropolitan Branch Trail
      3. Rock Creek Trail
      4. Oxon Run Trail
      5. Mount Vernon Trail
      6. Want to explore more trails? Check out any of the Capital Trails Network including 550+miles of trails across the region for more ideas!
  2. Take a photo of your group on the trail.
  3. Post your photo(s) on Instagram, tagging @REI and @WABADC and including the trail name.
  4. The winning group will be selected based upon:
    • Capturing a large group of participants in a single photo – Try to get as many people involved as possible! Large turnouts count for a lot!
    • Demonstrating passion for exploring and being active on local trails – Be creative! Costumes, signs, punny captions, etc. are encouraged. WABA and the REI marketing team will judge entries.
  5. A representative from the group must attend the March 27th event at Red Bear Brewing to claim the prize.
    • @WABADC will reach out to the best judged entries via Instagram to confirm their attendance at the Red Bear Brewing Celebration on March 27th. The team in attendance with the best judged entry will be awarded the prize.

For Individuals:

  1. Go for a run, walk, or other activity on a paved or natural surface trail in the DC metro area between March 1 and March 24, 2025.
    • Select from any of the following trails:
      1. Anacostia River Trail
      2. Metropolitan Branch Trail
      3. Rock Creek Trail
      4. Oxon Run Trail
      5. Mount Vernon Trail
      6. Want to explore more trails? Check out any of the Capital Trails Network including 550+miles of trails across the region for more ideas!
  2. Take and post a photo on Instagram, tagging @REI and @WABADC and including the trail name.
  3. The winning individual will be selected based on the post that best demonstrates passion for exploring and being active on local trails – Be creative! Costumes, signs, punny captions, etc. are encouraged. WABA and the REI marketing team will judge entries.
  4. The winner must attend the March 27th event at Red Bear Brewing to claim the prize.
    • @WABADC will reach out to the best judged individuals via Instagram to confirm their attendance at the Red Bear Brewing Celebration on March 27th. The individual in attendance with the best judged entry will be awarded the prize.
Scene of the Northwest Branch Trail - a paved trail in the Anacostia Tributary Trail network.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find local trails?
What can I win?
  • The winning group will receive 12 – $30 REI Gift Cards, 12 Ciele Running Hats, 12 High-Vis Running Vests.
  • The winning individual will receive 1 – $30 REI Gift Card, 1 Ciele Running Hat, and 1 High-Vis Running Vest.
What is the competition timeframe?
  • The challenge runs from March 1, 2025, to March 24, 2025.
Who can I run, walk, or bike with?
  • Check out local running clubs, walking groups, and social fitness organizations for potential training partners.
What is REI Run Fest?
  • REI Run Fest is an annual celebration of running, featuring races, activities, and community engagement. Learn more at [REI’s website].
What is the Capital Trails Coalition?
  • The Capital Trails Coalition is a regional initiative working to complete and connect the trail network across the DC metro area. They offer resources to learn about local trails including trail maps. More info: [Capital Trails Coalition website].
What is the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA)?
  • WABA advocates for safer streets and better biking infrastructure in the region. More info: [WABA website].
Who can I contact for more information?
What is Second Wind beer?
  • Second Wind is a 5.5% ABV India Pale Lager (24 IBU) brewed by Red Bear Brewing in collaboration with REI. A portion of proceeds benefits WABA and the Capital Trails Coalition. Learn more on [Untappd].
What more do I need to know to be eligible to participate?
  • Participants must be 18+ or have permission from a parent or guardian.
  • By participating, individuals acknowledge they assume personal responsibility for any risks involved.
  • Participants must comply with all local and federal laws. No trespassing or entering private property without permission.
  • By tagging and posting photos, participants grant permission for the images to be used, reproduced, and reshared in materials related to the challenge and future promotions.

By registering for this event you agree to follow WABA's Code of Conduct.