Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K is Supporting Indiana State Parks

“There’s nothing wrong with having a tree as a friend.” – Bob Ross

Run, hike, walk, bike, paddle, or roll. There are many ways to complete the Happy Little 5K, but all of them support Indiana’s outdoors. By raising funds for tree plantings and healthy forest initiatives in Indiana State Parks, you’re running for the trees when you participate in this Bob Ross inspired virtual event.

“Bob Ross is an American icon of light-hearted creativity and fun. And I love hiking. When I saw the opportunity to participate in the Happy Little Trees 5K to plant trees in Indiana, I shared it with my partner. We got excited and shared it with friends who joined us. I couldn’t imagine a healthier way to support nature in my community while hanging with friends.” – Jared Smith, 2024 Happy Little 5K participant.

Originally launched as a partnership between Michigan DNR and Bob Ross Inc., the Happy Little 5K has quickly expanded its impact. With 13 states now on board, the event has helped plant native trees around the country, including right here on Hoosier soil.

Indiana first joined the event in 2023, and thanks to the thousands of Hoosiers who have participated, dozens of trees were planted in campgrounds at Clifty Falls and Prophetstown state parks last year. These plantings, and the many more to come, make an impact on the properties and their guests for generations.

“We are very thankful to have nice spaces in our state and we do everything we can to support the parks system. This event blended our love of running on trails with a great cause, so we were happy to participate. Thank you for organizing it!” – Kelley Nelson, 2024 Happy Little 5K participant.

Much like the roots of the trees planted through this event, Bob Ross’s influence in Indiana runs deep. He filmed his iconic TV show, The Joy of Painting, in Muncie for more than a decade. The program aired on public television stations around the world, touching countless lives.

Whether you’re a fan of Bob Ross, looking for a new physical challenge, or just want to support Indiana’s public lands while spending time outside, the Happy Little 5K is perfect for everyone. For $36, participants in the event will receive a Bob Ross inspired shirt, medal, sticker, and finisher’s bib.

“I can’t wait to sign up for next year’s Run for the Trees! I am not a runner but as a person who walks everywhere and loves to hike this is perfect! A nice wilderness walk and I get to help the trees as I hike…thank you so much for doing this. I would sign up for next year’s right now.” – Lisa Miller, 2024 Happy Little 5K participant after completing last year’s event.

The 5K can be completed anywhere outdoors, April 19–27, encompassing both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 25). Of course, we recommend completing the event at your favorite DNR property. Registration is encouraged by April 1 to ensure delivery before the event. Join us and run for the trees HERE.