The City of Madison is promoting a new event, Walk-tober, to motivate people to get out and walk for transportation and for health during the month of October. Walking is a great way to boost physical and mental well-being while also being environmentally friendly.

October is a great month for walking! Temperatures are cooler and the fall colors change throughout the month. One can walk to work, walk to the store, walk before school or walk just for fun.

“Walk-tober is meant to celebrate walking and encourage people to get out,” said Pedestrian Bicycle Administrator Renee Callaway. “The event also intends to increase awareness of the value of walking to our residents, visitors, neighborhoods and city both as transportation and as recreation.”

This new month-long event, Walk-tober, offers a handful of planned and independent opportunities:

• new walking route ideas each week
• a walking challenge
• a reading list
• a school challenge
• activities you can do on your own or with your own household

It is encouraged to practice mindfulness and safety while participating. Madison and Dane County are seeing record level of coronavirus cases. Remember to stay home if you feel sick, avoid gathering while participating in Walk-tober, keep physical distance when you are out walking and wear a mask if you will be near others. Visit Public Health Madison & Dane County for more information on staying safe.

Walk-tober is led by Traffic Engineering in partnership with Madison Parks, Madison Public Library, Greater Madison MPO, Healthy Kids Collaborative of Dane County, Downtown Madison Inc, Madison’s Central Business Improvement District and the Dairyland Walkers.

Visit Walk-tober for all the details!

This is your chance to get out and experience Madison by foot or by wheel and get to know your neighborhood and city!