A little hiking can go a long way. And for one Lake County man, spending several days on trails throughout Florida earned him an award.

Chad Von Dette, of Clermont, was recently awarded the Florida Forest Service's 250-mile Trailwarrior medal, which is given pas part of the Trailwalker Program — designed to recognize recreational hikers for their enjoyment of Florida's state parks.

As part of the 250-mile goal, Von Dette also had to spread those hikes across a minimum of 30 trails and at least 10 different state parks. From the .75-mile fire and water trail at Jennings State Forest, near Jacksonville, to the 22-mile Reedy Creek Trail at Lake Wales Ridge State Forst, near Frostproof, Florida's state forests provide more than 1 million acres of different recreational opportunities.

"I have 35 state forests to choose from and a million shades of green to see," Von Dette said in a statement. "One of my favorite trails is the Kolokee Loop located in Little Big Econ State Forest. The trail runs along the Econlockhatchee River, where you will see alligators, river otters, sandhill cranes, people kayaking and bird watching."

Von Dette was given a medal, a certificate and a letter of appreciation.

To get involved in the Trailwalker Program, volunteer at a local state forest, or simply learn more about the Florida Forest Service, go to www.floridaforestservice.com.