5 Miles -> 5 Hikes -> 5 Parks -> 5 Weeks The 5-week challenge enourages you to hike on-your-own at any 76 of Ohio's beautiful state parks! Weekly emails will be sent during the challenge with tips and information about group hikes at various park locations. Everyone that participates gets a finisher's patch and an official t-shirt is a $10 add-on. Who is Grandma Gatewood? Grandma Emma Gatewood was from Gallia, Ohio and helped found the Buckeye Trail . She hiked the Appalachian National Scenic Trail three times, becoming the first woman to hike it solo. She also hiked the Oregon Trail and sections of the Buckeye Trail. She started her hiking career at the age of 67! To Learn More: Ohio’s Most Famous Hiker––Emma “Grandma” Gatewood - Ohio History Connection Registration fee: Price: $35 includes finisher's patch Official t-shirt - special $10 add-on Plan Your Hikes Make sure you have a plan to complete the challenge, whether that be hiking once a week for 5 weeks, or more often. Need help
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Westerville, OH. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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The Grandma Gatewood (Virtual) Challenge 2026 — Westerville, OH
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for April 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Westerville, OH.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
