DES MOINES — What’s the best way to spend New Year’s Day? Take a First Day Hike in an Iowa state park or forest!
More than 40 parks are hosting either a guided group hike or suggesting a self-guided hike. Hikers can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, and experience spectacular views, beautiful settings and the cultural treasures offered by Iowa’s state parks.
“We are excited to host First Day Hikes again, helping visitors experience Iowa state parks and forests year-round,” said Sherry Arntzen, chief of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ State Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau. “These hikes are a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.”
Staff and volunteers will lead free, guided First Day Hikes in more than 40 participating state parks. Some hikes will include wildlife viewing and hot beverages. Hikes will average one to two miles, or longer, depending on location.
In the No Coast Network listening area, the following state parks will offer First Day Hikes:
Honey Creek State Park
9:00 AM (Guided Hike)
Meeting Location: Park Office
Park Address: 12194 Honey Creek Pl, Moravia IA 52571
Description: Enjoy a guided hike through the campground to view Indian Mounds in the park. Discover peaceful views of Lake Rathbun amidst the oak and hickory forest. The trail is a dirt path.
Contact: (641) 724-3739
Lake Keomah State Park
SELF GUIDED HIKE
Parking Location: Park at the campground
Park Address: 2720 Keomah Ln, Oskaloosa IA 52577
Description: Enjoy this ¾ mile out and back hike to the beach house. Park at campground, enter trail near site 37 and walk down the hill and across the road. Follow the trail along the lakeshore.
Contact: (641) 673-6975
Rock Creek State Park
SELF GUIDED HIKE
Parking Location: Park at the concession area
Park Address: 5627 Rock Creek E, Kellogg IA 50135
Description: Enjoy a self-guided hike on the .5-mile Interpretative Trail. Start at the trail head by the concession building
and walk through a half mile trail in oak timber.
Contact: (641) 236-3722
