Special prizes for San Juan County as part of Walk250

by David Boyle
News Director
For those looking to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this summer, a program offered across the United States has a neat twist in San Juan County.
The Walk250 initiative is part of the broader America 250 celebrations occurring throughout the nation.
Monticello Zions Bank Branch Manager Derryl Jack explains Zions is a sponsor in Utah of the Walk250 event.
The Walk250 challenge invites participants to log 250 miles of movement throughout the year. Jack said the event is to encourage people to “enjoy the beautiful views, trails and history of the area.”
In addition to the statewide event, San Juan County has a particular local challenge.
San Juan County Visitor Services Director Allison Yamamoto-Sparks said the San Juan County initiative is inviting residents and visitors alike to log miles within San Juan County between April 1 and July 4 to be eligible for exclusive prizes.
Participants simply need to take a photo of themselves in San Juan County and log their miles at UtahsCanyonCountry.com.
In San Juan County, those who complete three to five miles will be eligible to receive enamel camping mugs, while those who complete 5-10 miles will receive branded water bottles. A special prize of a San Juan County picture map t-shirt is available for those who walk 10 or more miles.
While the challenge is intended to get people out on the many trails in San Juan County, Yamamoto-Sparks adds that mileage can be earned anywhere in San Juan County, while noting that there are suggestions for hikes on UtahsCanyonCountry.com
“You could log your miles walking around town in Monticello or Blanding. It could really be anywhere. We're just trying to encourage people to get out there and be active in our area.
“We do have those recommended hikes and walks on our website if there are folks that just need a little direction and ideas on where to go.”
In addition to the San Juan County specific prizes and challenges, Utah residents can also participate in a variety of ways in the Utah Walk250 challenge.
Miles can be earned in a variety of ways, including 12 minutes of moderate bike riding, 15 minutes of line dancing with about 2,500 steps also counting as a mile. For younger participants, 45 minutes of school recess is also equivalent to a mile, ensuring the whole family can join the effort.
Participants can register at America250.Utah.Gov/Walk250 and update their progress through an online form.
The Utah "Walk 250" challenge also has a prize deadline coming up. Participants who complete their miles by July 1 will be entered into a drawing for a Utah Adventure Getaway.
Those who complete the challenge throughout the year are eligible for certificates of participation to recognize the 250th anniversary of the nation.
Beyond the trails, Monticello is hosting a series of events to mark the 250th anniversary.
Following a successful Spanish Trail hike in May, the town will host "America’s Potluck" at the ballpark pavilion on July 5.
Other scheduled activities include a flag-themed youth event at the library on July 9 and a historical display titled "The Pen is Mightier" running August thru September.
Whether walking through the streets of Blanding or hiking the Abajo Mountains, local officials hope the initiative fosters a deeper appreciation for both the county’s natural beauty and the nation’s enduring legacy.
Those who complete the full 250-mile challenge by the end of 2026 will receive a commemorative keepsake certificate.