‘Walk with a doc’ event April 23 at historic site

Park visitors will be able to “walk with a doc” on Saturday, April 23, at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.

The 1 p.m. program, in partnership with Kaiser Permanente, is a walk along the Spruce Mill Trail with a doctor and park ranger. People can learn about Fort Vancouver’s new “Park Rx” program, which encourages visitors to use the site’s trails as a means to a healthier lifestyle.

Acting Chief Ranger Bob Cromwell will discuss the site’s World War I history as well as the history of Pearson Field.

The National Park Rx Day is part of a growing movement of prescribing outdoor activity to patients to improve health, according to a news release.

“Our doctors are passionate about promoting good health, so we’re excited to be part of this event that will get people active while enjoying the trails and sights of Fort Vancouver,” Dr. Mark Johansen, a family practice physician at Kaiser Permanente’s Salmon Creek Medical Office, said in the news release.

The starting point will be the reconstructed Fort Vancouver, 1001 E. Fifth St.

A walking guide is available at http://go.usa.gov/ceh2h.