October is almost here, and with it returns Walktober 2025 — Lane County’s month-long celebration of walking, connection and exploration. Whether you walk for wellness, discovery or just to enjoy the fall weather, Walktober offers something for every pace and interest. With dozens of free, themed walks happening all month, now’s the perfect time to grab a coworker and your most comfortable shoes.
Here are some highlights to add to your calendar:
- Wednesday Wheelers (Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.): A social, informal walk welcoming wheelchair users and others exploring Eugene’s accessible paths.
- Kalapuya Ways Talk and Hike (Oct. 5, 1-3 p.m.): Explore Indigenous culture and history in Hendricks Park.
- Eugene Masonic Cemetery Tour (Oct. 9, 5-6 p.m.): Learn about local history and trees in a beautiful historic setting.
- Natural History of UO Campus (Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-noon): Learn about the fascinating geology, flora, fauna, human history and landscape of UO’s campus.
- UO Bird Tour (Oct. 29, noon-2 p.m.): Bird in UO’s Willamette River Natural Area with local birders.
If your schedule’s tight, there are plenty of self-guided options such as the Downtown Eugene Mural Walk, Springfield Public Art Walk and the Coburg Historic Homes Walk. Printable maps and directions for these and other walks are available at wewalklane.org.
Two fun ways to get even more out of Walktober are the Coffee Shop Hop — walk between participating cafés all month to enjoy local drinks and discounts — and the Walktober Challenge, where every walk you take counts toward prizes. Find full details on both at wewalklane.org.
For the full list of 50+ walks and walking events happening throughout October visit wewalklane.org. Walktober 2025 is your chance to explore Lane County on foot — and have fun doing it.
—Top photo: Walktober 2025 artwork by Erick Wonderly-Varela