Free Group Walking Program Open for Registration Through Dakota County

Editor's note: This is a press release from Dakota County.

Step up and step out this spring—start walking. 

For the fifth year, Dakota County is sponsoring a free walking program for residents, Simple Steps. Since 2007, nearly 4,000 people have participated, logging more than 12 million minutes of walking.  

Simple Steps is a fun, easy way for people to improve their health. Join a group or start your own. Groups can range in size from two to 12 people. Walk regularly and you’ll be eligible for prizes, including a Simple Steps reflective arm band, baseball cap, lunch bag and gift cards.

The program runs through July 31. Registration is open through June 15.  

Register by visiting Dakota County's Simple Steps webpage or by calling 651-554-6100.  

To help you get started and stay motivated, you can also access the Simple Steps Starter Kit online. It includes tips and resources, including maps of interesting places to walk and bike in the county and a tool to assess the “walkability” of your neighborhood. Simple Steps participants can also connect on Facebook to share ideas about favorite walking trails, encouragement through motivational tips, and opportunities to participate in walking events in the county.  

Celebrate Earth Day with Simple Steps staff at , 860 Cliff Road, Eagan, from noon to 3 p.m. on April 22. Simple Steps registrants can enter a drawing for T-shirts and other prizes.  

Simple Steps is sponsored by the Dakota County Public Health Department.  Partners include cities, parks, businesses and organizations in Dakota County.