Meet John & Kathy Tehan

John and Kathy Tehan are familiar faces to Wildwood Parks and Recreation staff, taking daily walks, often on the Meramec Greenway and nearby community trails. They also visit other greenways around the region and average 2000 miles of walking every year!

“We have been walking and hiking together for 57 years. We have hiked local and State Park trails , Conservation Areas, and other major trails throughout Southeast Missouri. We have hiked the entire length of the Ozark Trail (twice) in stages.

Now, we walk parks, conservation areas or greenways almost daily (unless the temperature is quite cold or there is snow or inclement weather). Our typical walk is 8 miles which takes about three hours. We really enjoy the Meramec, Western and Dardenne Greenways which are close by. Over the years, we have met many wonderful people and have gained new, cherished friendships.

I keep track of our hiking and walking via GPS or phone app and record it on a spreadsheet. I don’t count steps or any other necessary “walking around “ in our totals.

Since I started using a spreadsheet to catalogue our hikes in 2009, we have averaged a little over 2000 miles per year. That’s a lot of togetherness. However, our shared time and experiences on the greenway and other trails allows us to discuss and plan our lives, activities and events.”

We are convinced that the greenways are a great resource that can provide everyone a myriad of benefits. Beyond the great exercise and fresh air there is ample time for reflection, gaining inspirations and enjoying the diversity of nature. Every season, every day, has its own unique beauty. There are wondrous flora and fauna everywhere that you take the time to observe. From wild life to wild flowers and even to frost flowers, there are wonders to be seen and enjoyed on the greenways.”