Sole Pursuits will take their “Heart and Sole” into the ancient forests of the Redwoods Sept. 26 through 28.

Sole Pursuits is a free hiking program sponsored by the Curry Health District offered as a health and wellness program for Curry County residents and folks from outlying areas.  Exercise is one of the most affective ways to minimize your risk of heart and lung disease, diabetes, cancer and general obesity, a press release said.

In Northern California, the Coast Redwood trees are as old as 2,000 years and reach more than 350 feet high.

Limited to 25 participants, the group will stay at the Redwoods National Park Hostel south of Crescent City. The hostel is a restored 1908 pioneer home with ocean views from every room and a beach across the road.

For Saturday’s hike, there will be a choice as to route and difficulty, but participants should already by in fairly good shape and plan to hike most of the day. Participants will hike at least 8 miles.

The cost is $140 per person and includes lodging, food and a guided hike all day  Saturday. Other hikes may be offered Friday afternoon and Sunday. The cost also includes a $30 tax-deductible donation to the Sole Pursuits hiking program.

Applications are available at the Curry General Hospitals Web site, www.curryhealthnetwork.com and are due by Aug. 31. For more information, call Cathy Boden, Sole Pursuits coordinator, at (541) 332-5039 or e-mail solepursuits@curryhealthnetwork.com.