With those guiding principles, Helbig created the Pickin Adventurous Series last year. The series, which includes opportunities to pedal, hike and paddle, returns this summer with the help of sponsor Mother Stewart’s Brewing in Springfield.
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Credit: CONTRIBUTED
Pedaling, hiking and paddling are fun fitness options, but Tom Foolery Outdoors ups the fun quotient with live, unplugged music at each of the monthly events. All three adventures take place in Clark County and are offered at no cost, simply a suggested donation.
“I don’t like money being a barrier to people enjoying the outdoors,” Helbig said. “Mother Stewart’s Brewing and other sponsors help make events like these low cost or no cost.”
The cycling, hiking and paddling events are open to all ages and experience levels.
“People really latched onto it last year, they really seem to like the combination,” Helbig said.
More than 100 people experienced the Pickin Adventurous Series in its inaugural year.
“It was small enough where you could get to know people and large enough to create a scene,” Helbig said with a smile. “People knew we were up to something.”
“Live Active, Laugh More, Inspire All” with Tomfoolery Outdoors
Pickin Adventurous Series – Pedal
What: A conversational-pace bike ride from Mother Stewart’s Brewing to Buck Creek State Park and back. The 13-mile round trip ride will follow the Buck Creek Trail through Springfield, to the C.J. Brown Reservoir for a trailside unplugged concert before returning to the brewery.
When: June 12, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Ride starts and finishes at Mother Stewart’s Brewing, 102 W. Columbia St., Springfield
Pickin Adventurous Series – Hike
What: A casual two-mile hike with two unplugged music stops along the route. The picturesque park features wetlands, forests and towering rock bluffs ideal for climbing.
When: July 10, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Mad River Gorge, 2710 Dayton-Springfield Road, Springfield
More: Water, sunscreen, bug spray and a lightweight camp chair are recommended.
Pickin Adventurous Series – Paddle
What: Grab your canoe, kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a floating concert on C.J. Brown Reservoir. Depart from the public boat launch and paddle to a quiet area on the lake and enjoy live music from the giant paddleboards/floating stages.
When: August 14, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Buck Creek State Park
More: Lifejackets are required. For those without their own kayaks, Taiters Kayak Solutions will have a limited number of rentals available by advance reservation.
For more information on these or other events, visit Tomfoolery Outdoors on Facebook or subscribe to the newsletter at www.tomfooleryoutdoors.com.
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