Tails on Trails 2026: Hike to Save Pets

Tails on Trails 2026: A Community Hike for Pet Rescue
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Baker Creek Preserve, Knoxville, TN
Join the Tails on Trails community as we gather at Baker Creek Preserve to celebrate a morning of hiking, music, and heartfelt connections. This year’s event is designed around what participants love most: the scenic hike through nature, live acoustic performances, engaging conversations with fellow animal lovers, playful moments with dogs, and an enduring sense of camaraderie.
The Hike
Embark on a 3-mile community trail that winds through Baker Creek Preserve's lush landscape. The route is accessible for hikers, walkers, families, and pets alike, offering everyone the chance to enjoy the natural beauty together. As you meander along the path, keep an eye out for picturesque spots where you can capture memorable moments with your furry companions.
Event Highlights
- Live Music: Enjoy soothing live acoustic performances throughout the morning.
- Coffee & Treats: Savor fresh coffee and delicious baked goods as part of a cozy campfire-inspired atmosphere.
- Memory Rocks: Paint a rock to carry on your hike or take home as a keepsake.
- Golden Paw Awards: Celebrate local veterinary heroes with heartfelt tributes during the Golden Paw Award ceremony.
Community Engagement
The event offers numerous opportunities for connection and community building. Gather around the fire, share stories over s'mores, and connect with fellow animal enthusiasts who are passionate about making a difference in pets' lives.
Fundraising Efforts
All proceeds from Tails on Trails go directly to supporting the Nomar & Mia Compassion Fund at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine. This fund helps pet owners facing emergency veterinary expenses, ensuring that no one has to make an impossible choice between their beloved animal’s life and financial stability.
Registration Details
Hiker registration is donation-based with a suggested minimum contribution of $25. Bring your dog along for some playful fun or simply enjoy the company of other four-legged friends. Invite a friend, grab a cup of coffee, and spend a meaningful fall morning contributing to pet rescue efforts.
Event Schedule
8:00 AM - Morning Gathering Begins
- Coffee & Music
- Memory Rocks Painting
- Check-in
8:45 AM - Welcome & Opening Remarks
9:00 AM - Flute Reflection Ceremony
9:10 AM - 3-Mile Community Hike Begins
10:00 AM (or whenever the first hikers return) - Relax and Reconnect
- Music, Coffee & Community
- Paint Memory Rocks
- Meet the Dogs
10:30 AM - Circus Dog Showcase
10:50 AM - Golden Paw Awards Ceremony
11:10 AM - Closing Gathering & Group Photo
11:30 AM - Event Concludes
Join us for a day that not only celebrates the beauty of nature and our furry friends but also makes a significant impact on animal welfare.