Area residents looking to stay active during the colder months will have several indoor options beginning in early January.
The Winter Walking Program will run from Jan. 5 through March 12, 2026, offering free, indoor walking opportunities at four convenient locations throughout the county. The program is coordinated by the Bellefontaine Joint Recreation District in partnership with local schools and Mary Rutan Hospital.
Walking locations and times include:
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Bellefontaine Elementary School, 1001 Ludlow Rd., Bellefontaine — Monday through Thursday, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
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Benjamin Logan Elementary School, 4560 County Road 26, Bellefontaine — Tuesday and Thursday, 6 to 7 p.m.
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Indian Lake High School, 6210 State Route 235, Lewistown — Monday through Thursday, 5 to 8 p.m. (February only)
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Riverside Local Schools, 2906 County Road 24 S., DeGraff — Monday and Wednesday, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Participants are reminded that there will be no walking sessions on Monday, Jan. 19, or Monday, Feb. 16. In addition, if a school is closed for any reason, the walking program at that location will also be canceled that evening.
For safety and organization, coats must be left at the check-in area, and participants are asked to leave bags at home or in their vehicles. All walkers must sign in upon entering and sign out when leaving.
As an added incentive, anyone who participates 10 or more times by Feb. 2 will receive a complimentary T-shirt at the conclusion of the program.
Questions about the Winter Walking Program can be directed to the Parks Office at (937) 592-3475.
Organizers thanked participating schools for providing a warm, safe place for community members to stay active throughout the winter months.
