Champlain Area Trails (CATS) is hosting it’s third annual inn-to-inn hike on Saturday, May 14, 2016.  The 11-mile Grand Hike to the Essex Inn will take place on CATS hiking trails and scenic back roads from Wadhams to the Essex Inn, where there will be a block party celebration featuring live music, restorative yoga and chair massage provided by Lake Champlain Yoga & Wellness, kids crafts and a photo booth to commemorate the event.

Check-in is from 12:15 to 1:30 pm across from Dogwood Bakery in Wadhams. Participants are encouraged to park in Essex where, starting at 12:15 pm, free shuttles will take them from the Essex Inn to Wadhams.

People can hike the whole route or join at designated “oases,” staffed with volunteers to provide refreshments. The block party begins at 4 pm, so hikers should estimate their walking times and plan to arrive in Essex accordingly. People parking in Wadhams should arrange their own transportation back from Essex.

Everyone is welcome to participate in the hike as well as the block party at the Essex Inn, which non-hikers can also attend. There is a registration fee of $20/person for the hike and block party; children under 17 are free. To preregister, go to the CATS website or call (518) 962-2287.