First Day Hikes Planned Across Minnesota on New Year’s

(KNSI)—The list of Minnesota state parks hosting First Day hikes is growing. Now, up to 13, it’s as simple as showing up and having fun, outside of paying the entrance fee to park your vehicle.

Wild River State Park Interpretive Naturalist Sean Hoppes says the lack of snow is not a detriment. In fact, it makes it easier to organize events.

“Some require pre-registration, and usually that’s because of snowshoeing and reserving enough snow shoes. But this year, most of them are not going to require pre-registration.”

Hoppes believes being outdoors is still an enjoyable experience, even without the snow. “You tend to stay inside and turn inward, but it’s such a good feeling to get out in winter, even without snow, and check out the state parks. There’s animals or birds around. We see a lot of deer. We see fishers and otters.”

For those with a New Year’s resolution to get outdoors more often, the hikes are just the opportunity to get things off on the right foot. First Day hikes are being organized in conjunction with the group, America’s State Parks. It’s all part of a nationwide initiative. If you are traveling this holiday season, you can still be a First Day hiker. Events are happening in all 50 states.

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