Local DNR properties offering First Day Hikes Jan. 1

Outdoor lovers can usher in 2022 at one of multiple First Day Hikes being offered Saturday, Jan. 1 by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

The guided hikes are being organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with America’s State Parks. First Day Hikes will take place in all 50 states.

First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Mass. The program was launched to foster healthy lifestyles and promote year-round recreation at state parks.

Details for First Day Hikes being held locally are provided below:

• Cataract Falls: A brochure for this self-guided hike is available at the gatehouse.

• Lieber State Recreation Area: Join the naturalist for Lieber’s Sunset First Day Hike at 4:30 p.m. at the Hilltop Shelter. Hike is a moderate 1.5-miles. Snacks, hot chocolate and a campfire will be provided.

• McCormick’s Creek State Park: Meet at Canyon Inn at 1 p.m. for registration for Winter Magic Photo Contest Hikes, which will begin at 2 p.m. Pick one of three different guided hikes. After the hikes, enter photos and enjoy refreshments courtesy of Canyon Inn.

• Owen-Putnam State Forest: Meet at the Owen Putnam State Forest office at 9 a.m. for a guided hike on Poplar Top Trail.

• Raccoon State Recreation Area: Meet at the Bluebird Shelter at noon for this one-hour moderately-rugged hike.

• Shades State Park: Meet at the Hickory Shelter at 10:30 a.m. for this one-mile moderate-to-rugged hike on Trail 1. Expert birder and park volunteer Alan Bruner will lead this hike, which includes Prospect Point, Silver Cascade Falls and Devil’s Punchbowl.

• Turkey Run State Park: Meet at 2 p.m. at the Turkey Run Inn for a guided hike through Turkey Hollow on Trail 6 and the Trail 7 loop.