Shakamak State Park to host Volksmarch

A Volksmarch will be held at Shakamak State Park on Saturday, sponsored by the Indiana Volksport Association (INVA) in conjunction with the Indiana State Parks Division of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Anyone can participate in the Volksmarch, sometimes called a Volkswalk. It's a family sport and people of all ages are welcome join in.

A Volksmarch is simply a "folk's walk" or a walk for the people. INVA President Don Vartanian says it's a relaxing form of exercise that allows any person to participate at their own pace with family and friends over a marked course that is usually about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) long.

"We're doing this primarily to promote physical fitness. It's not competitive -- everyone walks at their own pace. People who come to the Shakamak event will have a chance to stop in and see the park's nature center and stroll through the campgrounds," said Vartanian.

The Volksport Association and DNR are putting on a series of Volksmarches this summer in Indiana's State Parks. They've already been held at Potato Creek State Park, Tippecanoe River, Hardy Lake and Harmonie State Park. Shakamak State Park is next on the calendar and will be followed by Volksmarches at Morgan-Monroe State Forest on July 25, Potato Creek State Park on Aug. 8, Whitewater Memorial State Park on Aug. 29 and Versailles State Park on Oct. 24.

Shakamak's Volksmarch will start at 8 a.m. at the Log Cabin Shelter and conclude by 4 p.m. Participants are welcome to come anytime to start their walk between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

The walk travels on forest trails through a rolling terrain. There are several steps on the Shakamak trail and it's not suitable for wagons, baby strollers or wheelchairs. However, many parents carry infants in backpacks on Volksmarches and if handicapped persons want to participate, the INVA will direct them to an alternative trail.

Vartanian said water and cookies will be available at two checkpoints along the trail as well as restroom facilities.

"People are welcome to pack their own lunch and eat in the picnic area. There will be water for walkers at the checkpoints, but it's always a good idea for walkers to carry water with them," said Vartanian.

The INVA rates all the trails at each Volksmarch they sponsor.

"The rating scale goes from one through five. A trail rated number one is totally flat. A trail rated at five -- you are mountain climbing," laughed Vartanian. "The Shakamak course is rated at three."

Vartanian estimated participants walking at normal, average speed should finish the Shakamak walk in two-three hours.

There is no charge to participate in the Volksmarch at Shakamak. However, walkers who want to win INVA awards will need to register.

In addition, INVA awards a special large diecast medal those who want to register and pay a $13 fee.

All INVA events are held rain or shine -- participants should dress appropriately for the weather.

If bringing a pet, all pets must be kept on a leash.

Although the Volksmarch is free, participants must pay the current vehicle admission fee into the state park.