First Day Hikes

Information and photo from the Utah State Parks website:

Looking for a fun and healthy way to welcome in the New Year? Join us January 1, 2012 at participating state parks for guided hikes as part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hike Program.

Bring your friends and family and welcome the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and visit a state park.

2012 First Day Hikes Schedule:

Antelope Island State Park – Syracuse
Join Park Naturalist Wendy Wilson at 1:30 p.m. at the visitor center for an easy to moderate 2.5-mile hike. This hike is for everyone ages six and older. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. This hike is free with your paid $9 day-use fee (up to eight people in one vehicle). Dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and bring water and snacks. 801-721-9569

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park – Kanab
Join Ranger Dean Anderson at 1 p.m. at the parking lot for this three-mile hike in the shifting sand dunes. Hike is free with $6 day-use fee. Bring water, warm clothes and a GPS unit if you have one. 435-648-2800

Dead Horse Point State Park – Moab
Join Crystal Carpenter at the Neck (inquire at the visitor center for directions) at 1 p.m. for an easy two-mile hike. Bring water, a warm hat, gloves, coat, waterproof boots, and binoculars if you have them. This hike is for everyone ages five years and older. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed. 435-259-2614

Snow Canyon State Park – Ivins
Join Park Naturalist Jenny Dawn Stucki for a two-mile hike beginning at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome, however children 16 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Participants should bring water and wear sturdy shoes. No dogs or strollers allowed. Space is limited and registration is required two days prior to the event. 435-628-2255

Starvation State Park – Duchesne
Hike with Ranger Trampas Williams on this 1.5-mile, flat trip to the sand dunes. (But be prepared for snow!) All abilities and ages welcome. Meet at noon at Knight Hollow Campground. 435-738-2326

More fun things to do on New Year’s Day:

• Ice Skating in Utah
• Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Utah
• Take a Drive! Winter Emergency Car Kit

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