First Day hikes set for area parks

THERMOPOLIS — In what is becoming an increasingly popular New Year’s Day activity – regardless of the temperature – Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails hosts “First Day Hikes,” a perfect way for Wyoming residents and visitors to celebrate the New Year outdoors.

This year, a record 17 New Year’s Day guided hikes and walks will be offered at state park and historic site venues statewide held in conjunction with similar hikes held in all 50 states; a part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative.

This is the ninth consecutive year Wyoming is offering free First Day Hikes. Last year, despite below-zero wind chills, nearly 300 people participated.

Park staff and volunteers will lead this year’s hikes, which average one to two miles. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the America’s State Parks website. Visit http://www.naspd.org to find a First Day Hike nearest you.

In the Big Horn Basin and surrounding area, hikes will be offered at the following locations and times:

Boysen State Park – two-mile hike through moderate to difficult terrain, meet at park headquarters, 10 a.m., 307-876-2796

Buffalo Bill State Park – four-mile hike on easy terrain, meet at Hayden Arch Bridge (1.5 miles out of town on Old Yellowstone Hwy.), 9 a.m., 307-587-9227

Hot Springs State Park – Easy ½-mile or more difficult one-mile hikes, meet at Kiwanis Washakie Shelter, 11 a.m., 307-864-2176

Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site – one-mile hike over easy terrain, meet in main parking lot, 10 a.m., 307-469-2234

Sinks Canyon State Park – one-mile hike on easy to moderate terrain, meet at Nature Trail parking lot, 1 p.m., 307-332-6333

South Pass City State Historic Site – two-mile hike, meet at Dance Hall, 11 a.m., 307-332-3684