First Day Hikes offered at several area state parks

Hoosiers can usher in 2020 with other outdoor lovers at one of the many First Day Hikes offered Jan. 1 at Indiana’s state parks. 

First Day Hikes are a healthy way to start the new year and provide a chance to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and connect with friends.

Information on First Day events in Indiana is at bit.ly/2S6yOT6.

The guided hikes are organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with America’s State Parks (stateparks.org).

First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at 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.

First Day events at nearby Indiana State Park properties are (all times are local):

-- Raccoon SRA (Cecil M. Harden Lake), 3 p.m., Meet at the Campground Gatehouse for this one-hour rugged hike through the sandstone canyons on Trail 4. It’s good wildlife viewing for owls, eagles, deer or waterfowl.

-- Turkey Run State Park, noon-1 p.m., Meet at the nature center for this one-mile hike. This trail is rugged and potentially slippery. Hiking boots are required. Attendees must be able to lift their leg to a 90-degree angle. If the weather is not conducive for a hike into Rocky Hollow, a shorter and easier alternative will be offered.

-- Shades State Park, 3-4 p.m., Meet at the Hickory Shelter for this one-mile moderate to rugged hike. Participants must be able to lift their leg to a 90-degree angle. If the weather is not conducive for a hike into the canyon on Trail 1, a shorter and easier alternative will be offered.

-- McCormick’s Creek State Park, 2 p.m., Meet at Canyon Inn for hike. Pick one of two different guided hikes, enjoy refreshments courtesy of Canyon Inn afterward, and enter your photos into the photo contest. Contest registration begins at 1 p.m. in Canyon Inn.

-- Monroe Lake, Fairfax State Recreation Area, Monroe Lake will host its seventh annual First Day Trail Run/Walk. Registration/check-in runs from 2:15 to 3:15 p.m. at Bay View Shelter. The run/walk starts at 3:30 p.m. The event is untimed. Participants can choose from a 1.3- or 3.7-mile course. Registering in advance costs $15 and includes a post-hike buffet. The advance registration deadline is Dec. 30.

-- Shakamak State Park, 10-11 a.m., Meet at the log cabin by the aquatic facility. Hike is 2.5 miles long and will be on a paved surface.