Friday, Jan. 16, is Florida Arbor Day, which celebrates the expansive forests throughout the state. You can join the celebration by participating in Tree Quest, an exciting opportunity to become acquainted with the greenery you see every day.

Participants will embark on a quest to discover unique trees, learn fascinating facts about Florida's trees, and participate in a chance to win tree-themed prizes - all while enjoying the beauty of Hillsborough's local parks.

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Participating is easy. Simply visit any of the 13 participating Hillsborough County parks, scan the QR codes on tagged trees, and submit a short questionnaire. By doing so, you're entered to win exciting tree-themed prizes, such as gift cards to local nurseries, class passes, and Florida tree ID books, among others!

Take to the trees during Tree Quest! The event runs through Feb. 4.

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Visit HCFL.gov/TreeQuest for park locations and more information. Contact Alyssa Vinson with questions.

The physical benefits of exercise are often obvious, but did you know getting outdoors and exploring nature is also great for your mental health? 

According to Mental Health America (MHA), spending time in nature is linked to improved focus, lower stress, better mood, and reduced risk of developing a mental health condition. 

MHA also states that sunlight triggers the release of serotonin and Vitamin D, which are associated with boosting mood and reducing stress. Without enough sun, these levels can drop, leading to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. 

What better place to work on your wellness than at one of the more than 200 Hillsborough County parks and preserves! 

Now through March 31, 2026, you can participate in the County’s annual Hiking Spree. This year’s event features new trails, new parks, and limited-edition rewards. 

Whether you’re looking for a short hike at a nearby neighborhood park, or you want to challenge yourself at a nature preserve, the Hiking Spree offers something for everyone, even pets! 

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• Hiking Spree registration information 
• Hiking Spree Trail details
• Hiking Spree rewards 

When you share your photos of your hikes, be sure to tag Hillsborough County on Facebook, X, and Instagram with #TakeAHikeHC. 

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Mindful Mondays promotes different ways you can make your mental health a priority, despite having a busy schedule. From chair yoga virtual classes to tips on how to decompress after a long day, Hillsborough County's Mindful Mondays has various interactive resources for you to access no matter what day or time it is. New content updated on a continuing basis.