Virtual hiking on the Bibb track delivers wellness benefits

Participants in the virtual hiking challenge were able to track their progress on a virtual map, discovering 32 milestones. Image credit: Bibbulmun Track Foundation.

An outdoors virtual hiking challenge hosted in October by the Bibbulmun Track Foundation with Outdoors WA attracted 356 participants. Between them, they logged up an impressive 63,000 plus kilometres.  

Those taking up the challenge came from varied backgrounds, ranging from marathon trainees to recreational hikers, fitness enthusiasts and fundraisers. 

They were encouraged to focus on their physical and mental health by virtually “hiking” the 1,000-kilometer Bibbulmun Track, renowned for its spectacular and diverse landscapes from Kalamunda to Albany.  

By downloading a free app, participants could record their physical activity, whether walking, running, riding, swimming or even paddling their way “virtually” along a virtual map of the Track.  

Fundraising was optional but participants could support the Bibbulmun Track Foundation or a mental health charity of their choice. 

The challenge extended well beyond Australia. One team hiked sections of Turkey’s Lycian Way while training for marathons. bringing the spirit of the Bibbulmun Track with them across continents.  

Lachlan, a teacher from Victoria, remarked on how his team used the challenge to stay active during school holidays. Hannah from Team West Swan Volunteer Bushfire Brigade said they chose to participate to raise awareness of and fundraise for mental health.  

This year’s Outdoors October Challenge was designed to inspire an appreciation of the Bibbulmun Track and the profound benefits of spending time in nature. The Bibbulmun Track Foundation hopes participants will carry the spirit of Outdoors October forward.