Hit the trails in Bastrop for veterans’ mental health

Veterans, their families and community members can hit the trails at Bastrop State Park on Saturday for a free ruck hike focused on connection and veterans’ mental health.

What's happening

Participants can hike with or without a weighted pack and can choose between 0.8-, 1-, 1.5- and 3.3-mile routes.

In a news release, TPWD event coordinator Madalyn Miller said hikers can weigh down their packs with canned or bagged dog or cat food or treats, which will be donated to the Bastrop County Animal Shelter.

What you should know

Miller said participants should meet at the Refectory near the Tree Army Trails and are encouraged to:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes

• Dress appropriately for the weather

• Use sunscreen

• Bring at least 1 liter of water per person and salty snacks

Quote of note

“Being able to bring our community and local organizations together to rally around our veterans and their families means the world to us,” Nicole Mechler, TPWD military liaison, said in a news release. “We want to show our support and bring awareness by letting people know that they are not alone in this fight. Nature can be healing and we want to provide that for them.”

• Sept. 26, 9:30 a.m.-noon

• Free (admission)

• Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop

• https://tpwd.texas.gov/calendar/bastrop/veteran-mental-health-awareness-ruck-hike-free-community-event