The Clermont County Convention and Visitors Bureau will host the official dedication and ribbon cutting for the new Steven Newman Worldwalker Audio Trail on Thursday, May 7 at 2:00 p.m. at East Fork State Park.
The event celebrates the launch of a new immersive hiking experience honoring Bethel native and Worldwalker Steven Newman, whose historic solo walk around the world made international headlines.
In 1983, Newman set out from Bethel, Ohio, on a remarkable four-year, 15,000-mile journey across more than 20 countries and five continents. Along the way, he survived arrests, a bandit attack, and wildfires while also being welcomed by more than 400 families worldwide. When he returned in 1987, Newman became the first person to complete a fully documented solo walk around the world.
The Steven Newman Worldwalker Audio Trail will transform the 33-mile perimeter trail at East Fork State Park into an interactive storytelling experience. Hikers will be able to scan QR codes posted throughout the trail to hear Newman share stories from his book, Letters from Steven, recounting adventures from countries and cultures across the globe.
"Memorable visitor experiences are created through the places we explore and the stories that bring them to life," said Sarah Gleason, Director of Marketing for the Clermont County Convention and Visitors Bureau and project leader for the audio trail. "Steven's story is one of courage, perseverance, and kindness, and we are proud to create an experience that allows visitors to walk alongside his journey in an immersive and impactful way."
In addition to the audio trail, the project includes a new trailside sign and statue of Newman, designed to reflect his appearance when he returned to Bethel in 1987. Both will be unveiled during the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The project was made possible through collaboration among the Clermont County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, University of Cincinnati Clermont College, Kingdom Productions, and numerous local partners.
Community members, media, and visitors are invited to attend the dedication ceremony and celebrate the launch of this new attraction highlighting one of Clermont County's most inspiring stories.
