Volkssport

The Rockport Trailways Club, the local chapter of the American Volkssport Association, offers ongoing programs for participants and interested parties.

The “Rockport Sampler Volksmarch” includes a six and 8.5 kilometer walk along established trails and sidewalks throughout the city.  Each walk begins at the Tule Hike and Bike Trail and enables participants to enjoy natural settings, historic sites and the waterfront.  

Volkssport Association Brochure
6 km Rockport Sampler Trail Map 
8.5 km Rockport Sampler Trail Map

The Box with instructions, forms and stamp are available at the Rockport Fulton Community Pool during its operating hours.  Hours are Tuesday thru Saturday 8:00AM - 5:30PM; and Sunday 12:00PM - 5:30PM.

Volkswalking comes from the German term “Volksmarch,” which literally means “a people’s walk.” It is a personal fitness and recreation program offering noncompetitive outdoor walks, hikes, bike rides, and swims through a scenic, historic or interesting area over a predetermined route. According to Rick Martinez, Rockport’s Director of Parks and Leisure Services, “The purpose of Volkswalking is to encourage people of all ages to participate in the healthful hobby of hiking/walking/biking/swimming on a noncompetitive basis. This makes Volkswalking an excellent recreational activity for the entire family.” There are over 3,000 volksporting events in the United States (www.ava.org) each year with about 1,200 special ‘live’ events and 1,870 self-guided events open year-round.

Brought to the United States by military service members returning from Europe, Volkswalking is rapidly gaining popularity across the nation.  The organization offers different levels of achievement and awards for individual events and ongoing walks. Currently there are more than 350 Volkssporting clubs in the United States and there are clubs in 28 countries worldwide.

For additional information on the Rockport Trailways Club, call 361-727-2158 or email parks3@cityofrockport.com. Click here for a listing of other Texas clubs and events.