News - Start the new year on the right foot (and the left) with a ‘First Day Hike’

[Rick]

Minnesota state parks and trails will join other states in a nationwide effort to get as many kids and adults out hiking on Jan. 1 as possible, the Department of Natural Resources said. The effort, led by America’s State Parks, will include more than 400 guided hikes in all 50 states.

First Day Hikes in Minnesota will take place at:

• Lake Bemidji State Park (Bemidji), 10-11:30 a.m.
• Minneopa State Park (Mankato), 10-11:30 a.m.
• Scenic State Park (Bigfork), 10 a.m.-noon
• Jay Cooke State Park (Carlton), 1-2:30 p.m.
• Wild River State Park (Center City), 1-2:30 p.m.
• Lake Carlos State Park (Alexandria), 1-3 p.m.
• Whitewater State Park (Altura), 1-3 p.m.
• Tettegouche State Park (Silver Bay), 1-4 p.m.
• Luce Line State Trail (Vicksburg Lane trailhead, Plymouth), 6-7 p.m.

The hikes will promote getting outdoors to burn off holiday calories, cure cabin fever and enjoy the winter landscape and wildlife.

“Research shows that spending time outdoors rejuvenates the mind and body,” said Erika Rivers, director of the DNR’s Parks and Trails Division, “so Minnesota state parks and trails can be a great resource to anyone whose New Year’s resolution involves improving their health and fitness.”

Rivers plans to join the First Day Hike on the Luce Line State Trail, where candle luminaries will light the way. All First Day Hikes are free, but a vehicle permit ($5 for a one-day permit or $25 for a year-round permit) is required to enter Minnesota state parks. (There is no charge for parking at the Luce Line State Trail.) If there is sufficient snow, snowshoeing will be an option at the First Day Hikes. Some parks have snowshoes available in child and adult sizes; call ahead to reserve a pair.

“If a First Day Hike doesn’t fit into your family’s schedule on New Year’s Day,” Rivers says, “remember that Minnesota state parks and trails are open every day, even in winter, so come visit and hike whenever you can.”

For more information about the First Day Hikes, visit the DNR website or contact the DNR Information Center at [email protected] or 888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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