Montana State Parks Celebrates the New Year with First Day Hikes Across the State

Montana State Parks will sponsor free, guided hikes in 8 state parks across the state on New Year’s Day 2016 as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Friday, January 1, 2016 at a state park close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

“Last year, we hosted a record-breaking 41,000 people who hiked 72,442 miles in our state parks across the country when we launched America’s State Parks First Day Hikes,” said Priscilla Geigis, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). “Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle, for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.”

Montana State Parks boast a variety of beautiful settings for year-round outdoor recreation, and each First Day Hike will offer an opportunity to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures close to home. Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park.

This year, participants can enjoy hikes at Cooney State Park, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, Missouri Headwaters State Park, Lone Pine State Park, Makoshika State Park, Milltown State Park, Placid Lake State Park and Travelers’ Rest State Park. For more details about First Day Hikes at a Montana State Park near you visit: http://stateparks.mt.gov/calendar/.

First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks. Last year marked the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes. For more information about First Day Hikes throughout the United States, visit www.naspd.org.



Jeff
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