Minnesota offers First-Day Hikes on January 1

Minnesota will offer free, guided hikes in four state parks, including Lake Carlos State Park in Alexandria, on New Year’s Day. The hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s state parks to get people outdoors, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

“First-Day Hikes” are scheduled in all 50 states. State park directors across the country encourage friends and families to participate.

According to Priscilla Geigis, president of National Association of State Park Directors, last year, Minnesota state parks hosted more than 14,000 people who hiked more than 30,000 miles in state parks.

A First-Day Hike is scheduled at Lake Carlos State Park on Tuesday, January 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. A naturalist will guide hikers through the park and talk about its history, natural resources and cultural significance. Bring snowshoes if conditions warrant or call ahead to reserve a rental pair, (320) 852-7200.

All First-Day Hikes are free with a valid state park vehicle permit ($5/daily or $25/year-round). The new 2013 Minnesota State Park vehicle permit, which features a photograph of Sakatah Lake State Park, will be available for purchase January 1 at state park offices.

For more information, visit www.mndnr.gov or call the DNR Information Center at (651) 296-6157 or 1-888-646-6367 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Tags: local news, state parks, news, hiking