Veterans Mental Health Awareness Ruck Hike

Join us in honoring and supporting our veterans during Veterans Mental Health Awareness Month.

Join rangers at the Dogwood Canyon parking lot and go for a 5.2 mile hike to help connect with our veteran community and raise awareness of mental health struggles faced by veterans.

Where: Dogwood Canyon Parking Lot
When: Saturday, September 27th
Time: 10 AM to 1 PM
What to Bring: Water, Weather Appropriate Clothes, Closed-Toed Shoes, Bug Spray, Sunscreen
Who: All ages welcome.

Trail Information: 
Dogwood Canyon Trail- 5.2 miles Round Trip
Trail Rate: Moderate
Conditions: Off-Road, Uneven Ground, No Water Available on Trail

What is a Ruck?: First, rucking is welcome but not required to participate. To "ruck" is to walk or hike while wearing a weighted backpack. This originated as a military training exercise and has grown into a fitness trend to build endurance and strength. Memorial ruck events help connect veterans to their service days, builds camaraderie, community relationships and raises awareness for veteran suicide and mental health. "Rucking for veterans builds community, awareness and hope for those who have served." - Rucking for Veterans Inc. Nonprofit group

Veterans & Active Duty Military: Check out our Parklands Passports, which provide you with free entry to all Texas State Parks. Parklands Passports are available to veterans, disabled veterans, active-duty service members, and Gold Star Family members. You can bring your documentation and register for your passport in Park Headquarters at any time.

Accessibility Information: If you are interested in our adaptive devices, please email us at RRLSPJohnsonBranch@tpwd.texas.gov.

This program is included in park entry fees. Programs are subject to cancellation in the event of inclement weather. Cancellations will be announced on this website, or call park headquarters for updates.