The Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area is set to honor those who went above and beyond in the 2025 GO BIG Challenge. The celebration is set for Saturday, December 6, beginning at 10 AM at the Bandy Creek Visitor Center. Registration will open at 9:30 AM for early attendees, an important window for those aiming to compete for awards across various categories.
This past year’s challenge embraced a fresh theme, "Every Season Gives a Reason to Go Big in the Parks," encouraging visitors to engage with the parks during all four seasons. This innovative challenge, as reported by the National Park Service, tasked adventurers with points-based activities ranging from hiking and biking to paddling and horseback riding across Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Obed Wild & Scenic River, and Manhattan Project National Historical Park.
Collecting points was based on a system of honor, with visitors validating their accomplishments by noting down nature and historical facts about the parks they visited. For the truly ambitious, a sum of 100 points earned the coveted GO BIG 2025 Challenge patch, a token of their commitment and adventuresome spirit.
Attendees at the December 6 festivities will get an early look at the 2026 GO BIG Challenge logo and have the first opportunity to pick up a copy of the upcoming challenge booklet, set for official release on January 1. The “Lightning Challenge” — a shorter version of last year’s expedition designed for visitors with limited time — will also return, offering an additional way to explore and experience the public lands.
