More than 350 adults, teens and children trekked across the hilly trails of Stony Creek Metropark and over the finish line to cheers during the fifth annual “Trail Less Traveled” walk and run Sunday.

Reformatted this year as a 4K run/walk and 8K run, the event, hosted by the Utica Education Association Staywell Committee, boasted record attendance on Sunday. Trail Less Traveled promotes fitness through walking and running while also raising money to support grants for creative wellness programs benefiting Utica Community Schools students and staff.

“We’re offering a well-rounded event,” said Nancy Smith, event director and UEA Staywell Committee chair. “We’re trying to make it a community event that’s a fit for lot of different groups,” from children and families to experienced runners.

Children walking the 4K could participate in a trail treasure hunt, searching for woodland critters, vegetation and other natural sights.

Prior to this year, Trail Less Traveled consisted of a one-mile walk and 5K run, but this year’s change made it “definitely more appealing,” Smith said, noting the turnout.

Austin Azzaretti, a Utica Community Schools graduate, is a regular runner who came out to support the school system.

"It was a good, challenging course," he said. "Definitely a lot of hills."

Clarkston resident Ken Krausman, though an avid runner, said the event marked his first 8K trail run. His wife ran the 4K with a running club of co-workers.

“We just heard about it and wanted to come participate," Krausman said. “It had a lot more energy than I thought it would. It's bigger than we thought. The music is great.”

Besides a DJ, the finish line festivities also included an awards ceremony and an appearance from a Metroparks naturalist showing reptiles. Light snacks and water were provided as well.

“I just started running last May, so basically I try anything that’s a short distance,” said Carrie Yurenka, a teacher from Chesterfield who was met at the 4K finish line by her husband and three children. “(Participating in the event) was just for enjoyment.”

Timing was done by Hansons Running Shop. Other sponsors were Daude Family Chiropractic, Grand Traverse Pie Co., Dick’s Sporting Goods, HealthQuest Physical Therapy, the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Dunkin’ Donuts, Michigan Education Credit Union, Texas Roadhouse and Vince & Joe’s Market.

All results are posted on runmichigan.com.