The Parks Department is planning a Trail Challenge that dares everybody to overcome their nature-deficit disorder by enduring the rigors of five — count ’em, five! — hikes in 12 months on the county’s trails. (Upside: if your quest ends badly, perhaps Jon Krakauer will turn you into a legend.)

The contest kicks off Oct. 17; Web site is here. Presumably you’ll be able to register online then.

Those who take the challenge will receive a trail guide book with 21 trails to choose from. Those who finish their five will receive a “completion award” (I’m thinking it won’t be a Hummer. Here’s a grand prize suggestion: 30 minutes in Mel Cotton’s taking everything my grimy mitts can grab; heck, I’d hike all 21 twice for a shot at that).

I’m glad the good people at the Parks Department recognize there’s a fitness/obesity/extend-your-life angle to all those trails of theirs, though five outings in a year is more of a well-meaning start than an actual challenge.

All sniping aside, though, the county has an excellent parks system (especially when you consider the fact that it’s not in, well, Marin County) and anything that gets folks out into the parks they pay for and actually using them is preferable than the alternative.

I’ll try to remember to post an update on the 17th, when more details should be available. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to scrutinize — and, of course, ridicule — their trail choices. (Yes, we bloggers would be toast without our natural-born propensity to capitalize on the faults of others.)