Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Run for the trees to support forest health in Wisconsin State Parks. Sign up for the famous Bob Ross’ Happy Little 5K.

The Wisconsin DNR encourages you to join in on a VIRTUAL RACE that will help not only your health but also trees health and protection across the state.

All skill levels and abilities are encouraged to participate in the Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K. You can walk, run, skate, scooter, cycle or use a mobility device to complete the 3.1-mile race. The best part, you get to pick the start and finish locations.

Racers can complete their 5K anywhere outdoors between Earth Day on April 22nd and Arbor Day on April 26th.

Sign up and select Wisconsin as the state you wish to represent. A portion of the registration fee will go toward tree planting and forest health efforts. To combat threats from invasive species in Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas.

The registration fee is $36 and includes a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, a commemorative bib number, finisher’s medal, Run for the Trees sticker and shipping fees.

Race packets will start shipping on March 1st. To be guaranteed delivery before the race dates, please register by April 1st. Bulk registration is available for groups of 10 or more. Contact Michelle O’Kelly for information on bulk pricing.

Inspired by Bob Ross’ love of the outdoors, the “Happy Little Trees” program began in 2019 when the Michigan DNR, Bob Ross Inc. and hundreds of volunteers partnered to plant trees in locations across Michigan hard-hit by invasive pests and tree diseases. The program has since expanded, and participants can now choose one of several states to represent, including Wisconsin.

People around the world are familiar with the work and personality of Bob Ross, the American painter, art instructor and television host who in the ’80s and ’90s shared his love for painting and the environment with millions of viewers on the PBS show “The Joy of Painting.” Ross was known for demonstrating seemingly simple brushstrokes that brought gorgeous landscapes – full of happy little trees – to life on the canvas.

Suggested 5K routes at Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas are available on the DNR’s OutWiGo webpage.

Registration is open until April 15, 2024.