Outdoor Programs for Seniors

Senior Outdoor Adventure Recreation (SOAR) engages adults 55+ in outdoor activities to promote the health benefits of being active in nature. Burlington Recreation and Parks provide experienced guides and a diverse program offering. 

All participants must have the following required forms on file prior to participation:

• COVID Waiver
• Liability Waiver & Release
• Medical Clearance Form (signed by your doctor)

To register for an event, call the Kernodle Senior Center at (336) 222-5135. For specific questions about the hikes or required forms, contact Melissa Hoose, Outdoor Program Coordinator, at (336) 484-1394 or send an email. Space is limited on all hikes and pre-registration is required. 

For more outdoor programs available to the general public, visit www.BurlingtonNC.gov/Outdoors.

Upcoming Events

If you don't see the most up-to-date info on events below, be sure to check out the Kernodle Senior Center newsletter located at www.BurlingtonNC.gov/Seniors.

Winter Walkers: Kernodle Senior Center
Thursdays at 10:30 am (No walks on 11/25, 12/23, 12/30) 
Meet at the Kernodle Senior Center lobby - 1535 S. Mebane St, Burlington. Winter Walkers walk for 45-60 minutes around City Park at a moderate pace. All walks are on paved surfaces. Register by the Wednesday prior to each walk.  
 
Hike: Springwood Park
Tuesday, November 9 at 3:00 pm 
Meet at Springwood Park - 1450 Springwood Church Rd, Burlington. Park and meet in the back of the park near the playground at the soccer fields (go all the way to back of park). Walk 2 miles (with optional 3rd mile) on the paved trail around Springwood Park.  
 
Hike: Guilford Mackintosh Park & Marina
Tuesday, November 16 at 3:00 pm 
Meet at Guilford Mackintosh Park & Marina - 1345 NC HWY 61 Whitsett. Park at the end of the road in the circular parking area and meet at the trailhead. Hike 2 miles on natural surface trail over rolling terrain with a few steep hills.
 
Hike: Fairchild Park
Tuesday, November 23 at 3:00 pm 
Meet at Fairchild Community Center - 827 S. Graham Hopedale Rd, Burlington. Meet in the parking lot in front of the Center. Walk the 1-mile loop twice for a total of 2 miles (with optional 3rd mile). Path is wide and smooth with a combination of gravel fines and paved surface.  
 
Hike: Town & Country Park
Tuesday, November 30 at 3:00 pm 
Meet at Town & Country – 2999 Regent Park Ln. Burlington. Parking is on-street. Hike 2 miles through this hilly natural area tucked away along the Haw River here in Burlington. There are no restrooms on-site, plan accordingly.
 
Hike: Bill Cooke Park
Tuesday, December 7 at 2:00 pm 
Bill Cooke Park - 1010 Townbranch Rd, Graham. Park and meet in the first parking lot on the left when you enter the park (near the restrooms). Walk 2 miles on the paved path around Bill Cooke Park.
 
Hike: Cedarock Park
Tuesday, December 14 at 2:00 pm  
Meet at Cedarock Park – 4242 R. Dean Coleman Rd. Burlington. Park in the lot on the left just passed the playground. Hike 2 miles on the Rock Creek Trail. Expect natural surface trail (roots, rocks, etc.) over rolling terrain with a few steep hills.
 
Hike: City Park
Tuesday, December 21 at 2:00 pm 
Meet at the Kernodle Senior Center – 1535 S. Mebane St, Burlington. Meet outside in front of the building. Walk 2 miles along paved paths in and around City Park.  
 
Hike: Haw River Trail
Tuesday, January 4 at 2:00 pm 
Meet at the Haw River Trail - Longmeadow Trail Head - 1120 Valley Dr. Graham. Park and meet in the gravel lot. Hike about 2.5 miles on natural surface trail over rolling terrain. Expect some mud if it has rained recently. There are no restrooms on-site, plan accordingly.

For all hikes sturdy, closed-toed walking shoes and water are required. Trekking poles are highly recommended. Other recommended items include insect repellent, hat, sun protection, layers appropriate for the weather and small backpack to easily carry belonging.

Interested in additional hiking and outdoor adventures, visit www.BurlingtonNC.gov/Outdoors for more information and to register.