ThriveOBX is Hosting Walktober
A walking competition on the Outer Banks for the whole month of October!
Dare County Schools, Towns, Government and Outer Banks Health are stepping up to compete for the most steps and miles. All Outer Banks residents and visitors are welcome to compete, too; there are special groups/teams just for you!
How to Join the Competition
- Download the free StepUp app on your mobile device and create an account. The app connects with fitness devices that track your steps.
- Find your team’s unique QR listed below. You can only join one group!
- Double-check the QR code name below before scanning to make sure you’re joining the correct team. If you’re on your mobile device, instead of scanning the team QR code press and hold it down.
- Track your progress throughout October and see how your team is doing. You can also join your team’s group chat to connect with fellow participants.
- Stay connected through the group chat. You’ll have the option to submit your email to receive Walktober updates, including information following the celebratory gathering, and to join the ThriveOBX email list.
Choose the Team That’s Right for You
Pick one (1) group that best fits you and join that team for the entire Walktober competition. You do not have to work for or be affiliated with an organization to join its team. For example, an Outer Banks Health team member may join the Outer Banks Health team, while their family member or friend may join the Outer Banks Health team or the Outer Banks Residents team.
- Outer Banks Residents: Open to anyone who lives on the Outer Banks.
- Outer Banks Visitors: Open to anyone who does not live on the Outer Banks.
- Organization teams: Team members, family members, friends and others may join these teams.
Once you’ve chosen your team, scan the corresponding QR code found in that team’s dropdown below to join. If you’re using a mobile device, press and hold the QR code instead of scanning it.
You may join one (1) team only and must remain on that team throughout the competition.
Cape Hatteras Elementary
Cape Hatteras Secondary
Central Office
Dare Early College
First Flight Elementary
First Flight Middle
First Flight High School
Kitty Hawk Elementary
Manteo Elementary
Manteo Middle
Manteo High School
Nags Head Elementary
Dare County
Town of Duck
Town of Kill Devil Hills
Town of Kitty Hawk
Town of Manteo
Town of Nags Head
Town of Southern Shores
Outer Banks Health
Outer Banks Community
Outer Banks Visitors
Food Lion
Weekly Walktober Themes
Week 1: Boo! Begin Your Journey: Kick off Walktober — set a goal and get moving!
Week 2: Witches, Bats & Black Cats: Find your walking coven — invite friends, family, coworkers or pets to join you.
Week 3: Haunted Hikes & Spooky Strolls: Explore new walking spots — fall decor, spooky sites, sunsets, or nature sounds.
Week 4: Trick or Treat Your Feet: Celebrate your progress with a healthy, fun reward.
Oct 29–31: The Halloween Haunt: Finish strong! Dress in costume, decorate your shoes and enjoy your final walks with your walking buddy.
End of the Month Celebration
Walktober will conclude with a celebratory gathering on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026, at Dare County Parks & Recreation in Kill Devil Hills, to thank all participants, celebrate the friendly competitive spirit on the Outer Banks, and recognize the specific teams and individuals in each category. Click the link in your team’s group chat in StepUp to submit your email, and stay tuned for more info!
- Most Consistent Walker
- Best Walking Buddy
- Best Walking Adventure
- Best Walktober Photo
- Most Improved
- ThriveOBX Walktober Champion
Share your spooky, steppin’ spirit on social media and tag ThriveOBX!