The early-bird registration period is now open for the Lake George Land Conservancy’s (LGLC) third annual Lake George Hike-A-Thon, set for Sunday, July 5, 2015.  The Hike-A-Thon is a one-day event  created to showcase LGLC’s parks and preserves around Lake George as free public resources, and to promote a healthy, active lifestyle and appreciation for the outdoors.

Hikes take place simultaneously all around Lake George, culminating with aerial photography of each group by helicopter. Participants choose one of twelve sites to hike to, depending on time, location and difficulty.

The event is free, and until April 30 registrants will receive a free event t-shirt. Registrations must be made online through the Hike-A-Thon website, lakegeorgehikeathon.org. Those who choose to make a donation in support of the LGLC’s stewardship activities may also receive a limited edition Hike-A-Thon hat for each $25 they give.

Photographs will be taken by Carl Heilman II from a helicopter piloted by Bruce Mowery of North Country Heliflite; Heilman and Mowery are both donating their time for the event.

There are three new sites for 2015, and one additional hike at an old site, for a total of 12 hiking options.  The new sites are Anthony’s Nose, in Putnam; Terzian Woodlot, in Hague; and the Pinnacle, in Bolton Landing. Amy’s Park, a preserve in the back woods of Bolton, will host two hikes this year – in addition to the popular easy hike to the property’s beaver pond, a more challenging hike will be led to its southern boundary to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Lake George. Descriptions of all the sites are provided on the Hike-A-Thon website.

The LGLC is currently seeking Hike-A-Thon volunteers. Further information is available at lakegeorgehikeathon.org/volunteer. A volunteer orientation, which will cover Hike-A-Thon needs as well as other LGLC volunteer opportunities such as trail stewardship, is set for 10 am on April 11, and is open to anyone wishing to learn more.

LGLC is also seeking business sponsors, which provide the support needed to keep the Hike-A-Thon free for participants. Information on how to become a sponsor, and what benefits are provided, are at lakegeorgehikeathon.org/become-a-sponsor, or interested businesses may contact Sarah Hoffman at 518-644-9673 or email shoffman@lglc.org.

Current sponsors include Carl Heilman, II/Wild Visions, Inc., North Country Heliflite, and Fx3-Fit Food Fast. The Lake George Mirror is the event’s media sponsor.

For more information about the Hike-A-Thon visit lakegeorgehikeathon.org, or contact Communications and Outreach Manager Sarah Hoffman at 518-644-9673, or email shoffman@lglc.org. Fans may also follow the Hike-A-Thon on Facebook: facebook.com/LakeGeorgeHikeAThon.