“The Hike 100 challenge allows me to have a personal role in ensuring that the next generation of park users, supporters and advocates carries on the legacy of the National Park Service for the next 100 years,” Cash said. “The lifeline of any legacy is to ensure that our voices are not only heard by the next generation, but also shared in a manner that inspires them to pick up the torch from the previous generation and carry it forward.”

Cash, who will be completing the Smokies Centenntial Challenge — Hike 100 mandate himself, will also invite park lovers to hike some of the miles alongside him. 

• On Saturday, Dec. 3, he’ll hike the Oconaluftee River Trail near Cherokee, and on Saturday, Aug. 20, he’ll hike the Gatlinburg Trail. These frontcountry hikes are open to all. 

• On Saturday, June 25, he’ll lead a backcountry hike in North Carolina. On Saturday, Oct. 8, he’ll lead a backcountry hike in Tennessee. These hikes are limited to 20 people through a reservation form on the website.  

In an effort to engage groups of people who might otherwise not experience the park due to lack of transportation or finances, the park will host several regional youth organizations throughout the year. Cash and hikers from the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club and Carolina Mountain Club will lead these hikes. 

Participants who reach the 100-mile challenge goal will earn a commemorative pin and an invitation to an end-of-year celebration hosted by Cash. 

The challenge program is supported by the National Parks Foundation’s Active Trails grant, the Great Smoky Mountains Association and Friends of the Smokies. 

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