The 2/2026 Timpanogos Hiking Challenge has officially begun, offering participants two distinct ways to earn badges through mountain peaks and specific destinations. As the hiking event launches in Provo, voters in Uintah and Duchesne counties are preparing for the primary election scheduled for June 23.
Details of hiking challenge categories
The Timpanogos Hiking Co. announced Monday that the fourth annual iteration of its hiking challenge is underway. This year's program features 15 total badges divided into two specific categories: a seven-peak GOAT Challenge and an eight-destination Escape the Noise Challenge.
Mental health benefits of hiking
The company stated that the primary motivation behind the initiative is to address the unprecedented decline in mental health observed over the past decade. Organizers described hiking as a proven antidote to these trends, aiming to provide a way for people to escape modern noise, rediscover amazing locations, and reconnect with significant personal values.
Free shirts for early finishers
For the first time in the event's history, the Timpanogos Hiking Co. is offering free shirts to the first 300 participants who successfully complete either of the two challenges. These shirts are being provided through a donation from SLC Activewear.
How to participate and earn badges
Participants can collect physical flyers detailing all required peaks and locations at the company's store located at 252 N. University Ave. in Provo, or they may choose to print their own copies using versions available online. To earn badges, hikers must take a photograph at the designated peak or location, tag @timpanogoshiking on social .and visit the Provo store to collect their rewards.
Specialized Give Back badge details
The 2026 challenge also includes a specialized 'Give Back' badge, which is available exclusively at Pando Refitters, an outdoor shop located across the street from the Timpanogos Hiking Co. store. To earn this specific badge, participants must visit the Provo-based shop and make a $20 donation to one of the non-profits dedicated to preserving Utah's wild spaces.
Supporting partners for the event
Other partners supporting this year's event include Trailhead Strategies Group, an organization that provides consulting, resources, and partnerships to support veterans and outdoor nonprofits, with a specific focus on veteran mental health.
While hikers prepare for their seasonal adventures, voters in Uintah County face the June 23 primary election deadline. Because it is now too late to return ballots via mail, officials have provided specific locations for ballot drop-off and in-person voting.
In Uintah County, official ballot drop box locations include the Uintah County Library Drive-Thru, which remains accessible 24/7, as well as the Uintah County Building, Vernal City Office, Naples City Office, and the Ballard City Office. The latter four locations are only accessible during standard business hours.
For those choosing to vote in person on June 23, Uintah County residents can do so at the Uintah County Commission Chambers. In Duchesne County, voters are encouraged to contact their local City Office to identify the nearest drop box location.
In-person voting options for Duchesne County include the Duchesne County Administration Building in Duchesne and the Roosevelt Crossroads Senior Center located in Roosevelt.
