This summer, a new tradition takes its first steps — at Clear Creek Valley Park just north of Denver, and in towns and neighborhoods far beyond Colorado’s front range.
For nearly 20 years, the MS Center’s beloved Multiple Summits 4 MS (MS4MS) campaign inspired participants to get active in support of the Rocky Mountain MS Center.
Teams started out all those years ago by tackling Colorado’s iconic 14ers, the more than 50 mountains in our state whose peaks rise over 14,000 feet. Soon the MS4MS experience evolved into a do-it-yourself campaign that saw people near and far creating individualized fitness goals, while gathering support and spreading awareness for MS and the Rocky Mountain MS Center.
The Rocky Mountain MS Walk and MS Challenge are the next steps in the evolution of MS4MS — inviting the MS community to get out and get active for a purpose.
“Together, these community-driven campaigns give participants the chance to activate their own networks of family, friends and colleagues to help raise the much-needed funds that fuel the programs and services of the MS Center,” said Gina Hensrud, Chief Executive Officer. “We hope you’ll consider joining one or both, by registering and creating your own fundraising page. Every participant — and every dollar we raise — makes a difference!”
Rocky Mountain MS Walk: June 20 in Denver
On Saturday, June 20, the Rocky Mountain MS Walk honors the MS4MS legacy while introducing a fresh, inclusive way for the community to unite — stepping forward together, in a single shared space during one morning of camaraderie and community.
At its core, the MS Walk is designed to be as welcoming as it is inspiring. Participants will take on the “Flat 14er,” a 14,000-foot (just over 2.5 miles) paved loop (about 1/3 mile per loop) that pays homage to Colorado’s mountain soul while remaining fully accessible. The route invites individuals of all abilities to walk, roll, or move at their own pace, completing as much or as little of the course as feels right to them.
“Our emphasis with the MS Walk is on participation, not just performance,” said Sarah Sin, Community Engagement and Events Manager at the Rocky Mountain MS Center. “There are no expectations of speed or distance — only the opportunity to show up, take part, and make a difference.”
Events like this have long played an essential role in bringing people together to support a shared cause, creating spaces where connection, encouragement, and visibility thrive. For individuals living with MS, as well as their families, friends, and supporters, the Walk offers a powerful reminder that no one faces the disease alone.
The setting at Clear Creek Valley Park reinforces that sense of openness and accessibility. Just minutes from Denver, the location provides a welcoming environment where participants can gather, connect, and move together in support of a common goal. The looped design of the course allows for flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that everyone — from seasoned walkers to first-time participants — can engage in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful.
Rocky Mountain MS Challenge: All Summer Long, From Anywhere!
While the MS Walk introduces a new format, it remains connected to a broader experience. Those not able to join the MS Walk in Denver are invited to take part in the MS Center’s summer-long, do-it-yourself Rocky
Mountain MS Challenge. Whether hiking a favorite trail, walking in your neighborhood, or pursuing another personal fitness goal, individuals can join in supporting the MS Center’s programs and services in their own way.
“We’re so excited to bring our community together on June 20 for the MS Walk, but we also want to make sure our many friends and supporters from afar have their own opportunity to participate,” said Sin. “The Rocky Mountain MS Challenge is built just for them! No matter where you live, you can pick your own challenge and get active for the cause with us.”
Two Events, One Cause
Participants in both the MS Walk and MS Challenge are invited to register by themselves, start or join a team, and build their own fundraising pages on our new and easy-to-use platform. We’ve revamped and refined the tech from recent years to ensure the experience is easy, smooth, and straightforward.
Fundraising pages feature a Dashboard where you can share your personal campaign, keep track of friends and family who’ve supported you, and even send notes of thanks to people who’ve contributed to you.
And of course, all funds raised through the MS Walk and MS Challenge directly support the programs and services of the Rocky Mountain MS Center.
Although based in the Denver area, the MS Center’s work impacts people living with MS across the region and the world. All participants and every dollar raised ensure our extended community has access to the resources they need. From livestreaming education programs, to cutting edge research shaping the future of MS — not to mention this very magazine, InforMS — financial support from these events will make a difference.
Every step for the MS Walk and MS Challenge will carry forward a legacy of commitment and compassion, while helping to shape the future of MS care, support, education, and research. And in those steps — whether many or few — participants will find what has always defined our MS community: strength in connection, and hope in action.
