City employees in Battle Creek participated in the North Country Trail Association’s Hike 100 Challenge during 2025, an initiative designed to encourage people to hike 100 miles at their own pace over the course of a year.
The group collectively walked more than 1,000 miles. Five employees reached or exceeded the 100-mile mark. Participants hiked through various seasons and weather conditions, covering distances from Battle Creek to North Dakota. Two members completed the Mackinac Bridge Walk, and some hikes included shelter dogs from the Calhoun County Animal Center. The majority of walks took place on Battle Creek’s Linear Path.
The five employees who finished at least 100 miles were Perry Hart (400 miles), Patty Hoch-Melluish (200 miles), Becca Forbes (103 miles), Matt Cannady (101 miles), and Steve Siemen (100 miles). Hart lost 20 pounds during his efforts. Hoch-Melluish often brought along shelter dogs. Forbes focused on trail photography, Cannady completed all of the trail through Battle Creek, and Siemen joined late but logged 27 miles in five days.
“Thank you to everyone who participated in this fun and healthy challenge. It was a great way to stay active, enjoy nature, and explore the trails that make our region special,” organizers stated.
Those interested in participating in the next Hike 100 Challenge can find information or sign up on the North Country Trail Association website. Details about the section of trail passing through Battle Creek are available on the local NCTA Chief Noonday Chapter website.
