The bird isn't the only one that will be stuffed on Thanksgiving Day.
An average Thanksgiving dinner contains between 3,000 and 4,000 calories - and that's without going back for seconds. That's nearly two days worth of calories in one sitting.
Knowing a big Turkey Day meal is in store today, make plans to walk off some of that weight. Or, if you're not calorie-conscious and want to build up an appetite before the big meal, join in one of today's fundraising 5Ks.
Tennessee State Parks are sponsoring free Day After Thanksgiving Hikes on Friday, Nov. 24. This is the fourth year that state parks have offered ranger-led hikes designed for all ages and abilities. Some hikes will be approximately one mile in length, tailored for novice hikers, while others are lengthier and geared to more experienced hikers.
Here's a run-down of what's on tap:
Grateful Gobbler Walk
» Where: Coolidge Park, 200 River St.
» When: 7 a.m. stage festivities, 8 a.m. races, today, Nov. 23
» Registration: $25 walkers/runners ages 13 and older; $10 ages 12 and younger
The 18th annual Grateful Gobbler will benefit the Maclellan Shelter for Families, an emergency shelter for homeless families that is the first of its kind in the city. It provides a stable location for families to remain together while searching for permanent housing.
The 5K walk, run and stroll conclude by 10 a.m. so everybody is home in time to get their meals on the table.
» To register: gratefulgobblerwalk.org
Hungry Turkey 5K
» Where: Coolidge Park, 200 River St.
» When: 8:30 a.m. Kids Dash, 8:45 a.m. 5K and half marathon, Saturday, Nov. 25
» Registration: $36.99 for 5K to $69.99 for half marathon plus fees; must register by Nov. 24 at 11:59 p.m.
Each participant receives a free fleece hoodie with registration, and there will be cinnamon rolls at the finish line.
This race benefits Chattanooga Sports Ministries. To register: http://tennesseeruns.com/chattanoogahungryturkeyrun.
Turkey Trot
» Where: Sports Barn East, 6148 Lee Highway
» When: 7 a.m. registration, 8:30 a.m. mile fun run, 8:45 a.m. three-mile walk, 9 a.m. 8-kilometer race, today, Nov. 23
» Registration: $27 8K, $20 all other events
This race benefits kidney patients in the area through presenting sponsor Chattanooga Kidney Centers. Parking is available at the Sports Barn and across Lee Highway at Sam's Club.
Day After Thanksgiving Hikes
» Booker T. Washington State Park, 5801 Champion Road, 9:30 a.m. meet at pool parking lot for 10 a.m. two-hour hike. 423-894-4955.
» Cumberland Mountain State Park, 24 Office Drive, Crossville, Tenn., meet on restaurant terrace, 10 a.m.-noon CST, wear sturdy shoes and bring water for 2-mile hike. 931-484-6138.
» Cumberland Trail State Park, meet at head of Sequatchie, 225 Tranquility Lane, Pikeville, Tenn., 8-10 a.m. CST. Bring water and dress for the weather. 423-533-2928.
» Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, Tenn., 9-11:30 a.m. CST. Wear layers of clothing appropriate for weather, bring drinking water. 423-881-5708.
» Harrison Bay State Park, 8411 Harrison Bay Road, 10-11:30 a.m., meet at marina parking lot. 423-344-6214.
» Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park, meet at Ocoee Whitewater Center, 4400 Highway 64, 1:45-5 p.m. Bring sturdy shoes, snacks and water. 423-263-0050.
» Red Clay State Park, 1140 Red Clay Park Road, Cleveland, Tenn., 10 a.m., short hike and interpretive tour. 423-478-0339.
» South Cumberland State Park, 587 Lakes Road, Tracy City, Tenn., 9:30 a.m. CST, bring canned food item or cash for donation to Grundy County Food Bank. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. 931-924-2980.
» South Cumberland State Park, 11745 Highway 41, Monteagle, Tenn., 2:30-4 p.m. CST. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 931-924-2980.