A decades-old European tradition is making its way back to the charming alpine village of Helen, Georgia, as the 23rd Annual Volkswanderung returns to the community. Also known as a Volksmarch or “people’s walk,” the event is set to take place Saturday, April 26, blending scenic trails, cultural celebration, and community spirit in a non-competitive fitness walk open to all ages.
Alpine Helen Volksmarch Club President Rob Powell and Treasurer Bryan Meckley sat down with Now Habersham to explain what Volksmarching is and the revival of the event they have planned in Helen.
A walk through history
Originating in Germany and neighboring countries like Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein in the 1960s, Volksmarching quickly became a popular way to combine health and heritage.
The movement officially took shape in 1968 when it was recognized by the International Federation of Popular Sports (IVV) as a non-competitive walking event that promotes fitness and fun. The tradition has since spread worldwide, with walkers collecting stamps, pins, and memorabilia from events across the globe.
For Powell, one of the passionate organizers of the Helen event, it’s a tradition he loved while living in Germany — one he felt compelled to bring back stateside.
“We did our first one as a family and said, ‘Wow, we like this,’” Powell said. “Now we’re bringing it to America — to Helen, as a matter of fact.”
He gave a bit of history of the event in Helen that dates back nearly 40 years. Helen first embraced Volksmarching in 1987, hosting annual walks through the town until 2007. After a long hiatus, the event was revived in 2022, and it has grown steadily since. Powell said this year marks the third walk since its relaunch, making it the 23rd Volkswanderung overall.
This year’s walk: Two scenic routes
Participants can choose from two walking routes designed to showcase the natural beauty of the area:
- 10K Mountain Trail Walk: A more challenging but stunning route, this walk starts at Bodensee German Restaurant and winds through downtown Helen to the Helen-to-Unicoi Trail, leading up to Unicoi State Park Lodge and back. Walkers will enjoy mountain streams, forest views, and an authentic alpine atmosphere reminiscent of southern Germany.
- 5K Riverside Trail Walk: A gentler, flatter alternative perfect for beginners, families with strollers, or leashed pets. This walk follows the Hardman Farm Trail along the Chattahoochee River, offering beautiful river views with minimal incline.
Participants can start any time between 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m., and the walk will conclude by 12:00 p.m. The post-walk celebration — including live German music, food, beer, and a large prize drawing — will run from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. back at Bodensee Restaurant.
Registration and festival details
- Basic Walk Registration: $5 (covers AVA insurance and participation)
- Festival Bundle: $25 (includes the walk, a commemorative pin, two German beers, a food ticket, a raffle ticket, and a bag full of sponsor goodies)
The first 200 registrants for the bundle package will receive a special gift bag featuring discounts, coupons, and giveaways from local businesses — a value that far exceeds the cost of registration.
The Rotary Club of Helen is sponsoring the prize drawing, and all proceeds from raffle ticket sales will benefit White County Circle of Hope, a local charity supporting victims of domestic violence.
“We’re a nonprofit, but we wanted to partner with a charity that gives back to our community,” Meckley said.
Collecting memories — and stamps
A unique feature of Volksmarching is the event and distance books, where walkers collect stamps from each event they complete. For many, these books are a badge of honor, filled with stories of journeys across the U.S. and Europe. Participants can purchase official AVA books and get them stamped at the event.
“Some people have walked thousands of miles and attended events in all 50 states and multiple countries,” Powell said. “We’ll have a booth displaying the history, along with pins, past T-shirts, and other memorabilia.”
Plans are already in the works for next year’s event, which may feature custom Helen beer steins, a nod to the German tradition where participants receive ceramic mugs instead of medals or shirts.
Promoting a different side of Helen
While Helen is often known for its Oktoberfest celebrations, downtown shopping, and Bavarian charm, the Volkswanderung offers a family-friendly, fitness-focused alternative.
“This gives visitors and locals alike the chance to see the quieter, more natural side of Helen,” Meckley said. “You get to walk through the woods, see the river, breathe the mountain air — and then come back to town and celebrate.”
The event is open to all ages and fitness levels, and leashed pets are welcome. Whether you’re a seasoned walker collecting stamps or just looking for a fun Saturday outing with the family, the 23rd Annual Volkswanderung has something for everyone.
For more information, visit the club’s website at www.alpinehelenvolksmarch.org or follow their signs and posters throughout Helen leading up to the event.
Dust off your walking shoes, grab your dog, your stroller, or your hiking buddies — and come see Helen like never before!
