Hillsborough County's 11th annual Hiking Spree begins Sunday, Nov. 1, with 25 trails to explore through March 31, 2027.

Participants who complete at least eight hikes can earn a limited-edition patch, a walking stick medallion or a pet bandana, according to the county's announcement. One hike may be at a location outside the designated list.

Registration is free, although some parks charge an entrance fee, typically $2 per vehicle. Trails vary in length and difficulty, with options for wheelchair users and people with accessibility needs. Leashed dogs are welcome.

A kickoff celebration is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 7, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Keystone Park in Odessa. The county event listing includes guided hikes, nature talks, crafts, food trucks and outdoor groups. The park's half-mile paved Hawk's Nest Fitness Trail is among this season's designated routes. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and weather-related cancellation is possible.

The county's Trailblazer blog reported that almost 40 percent of registered hikers completed the most recent season, a record completion rate. The blog also reported that 54 percent of hikers went with friends or family and 10.5 percent were under 18.

Ron Housenick, a recreation program specialist with Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation, described the program's approach in the blog: "Inclusion isn't a tagline for us; it's the foundation of the program."

South Shore residents can check HCFL.gov/HikingSpree for updates. As of Oct. 28, the program page said locations, maps and reward information were coming soon.