Usher in 2019 with other outdoor lovers at one of the many First Day Hikes offered Jan. 1 at Indiana’s state parks.
First Day Hikes are a healthy way to start 2019 and a chance to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and connect with friends.
Information on First Day events in Indiana can be found at StateParks.IN.gov/2420.htm.
The guided hikes are organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with America’s State Parks. Hikes will take place in all 50 states.
First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Mass. The program was launched to foster healthy lifestyles and promote year-round recreation at state parks.
For more information, visit America’s State Parks website, stateparks.org, or visit the Facebook page.
The following includes details about First Day Hikes events at three local state parks:
- Fort Harrison State Park, 1 to 2 p.m.: Meet at the Delaware Lake parking area for a hike on Harrison Trace. The paved loop is 2.25 miles long. Hot cocoa will be provided by Friends of the Fort group.
- Mounds State Park, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.: Join the naturalist on an illuminated hike to the mounds. The hike will begin at the nature center and may involve rugged terrain and stairs.
- Summit Lake State Park: An indoor activity for kids starts at 10 a.m. at the park office. At 11 a.m., hikers should meet at the nature center for a one-mile, 30-minute hike. Coffee, hot chocolate and cookies will be available at the park office beforehand.