Today I would like to spotlight Walk2Connect; a local organization that is continuously working to make slow-paced comfortable travel around our town more common and acceptable. Throughout the year Walk2Connect organizes group walks along predetermined routes in hopes to explore seldom seen roads, neighborhoods and businesses, as well as develop more familiar connections between communities.

This summer Walk2Connect will be hosting multiple events around town, highlighted by their largest event the NE Walk Fest on August 24th. The NE Walk Fest will bring walkers through three Northeast Denver neighborhoods: Park Hill, Stapleton and Montclair along easy walking loops between neighborhood events located at Holly Square, the Green in Stapleton and McNichols Park.

Similar walking events through Stapleton & NW Aurora, Highlands and City Park are scheduled this summer as well as a few outside of the metro area. Other walks such as the RTD Connect – Rocky Mountain Arsenal and Walk, Rail, Dine – Denver to Golden, incorporates transit into a walk pushing the limits on the traditional transit oriented experience.

All in all getting out and exploring by foot is the best way to get to know an area and encourage others to feel comfortable getting around by foot. Whether it is with an organized event like Walk2Connect or just your daily commute, enjoy your surroundings by walking more this summer.

Also, if you decide to participate in a Walk2Connect event, be sure to ask Walk2Connect founder Jonathon Stalls his inspiration for starting this organization…very cool story!