IDAHO STATE PARKS CELEBRATES NEW YEAR WITH FIRST DAY HIKES
Rejuvenate by taking a family friendly trek through a state park close to home
BOISE – Residents of the Treasure Valley and Lewiston are invited to join Idaho State Parks for the second annual First Day Hikes event. This year, hikes will take place from 1 – 3 p.m. at Eagle Island State Park and Hells Gate State Park on New Year’s Day.
“We so pleased to be holding our second annual First Day Hikes event, and this year we are proud to announce that we have added a second location for Idahoans to get outdoors and in to our beautiful state parks,” said Idaho State Parks Director, Nancy Merrill. “First Day Hikes are a wonderful way to invigorate the mind and body while burning off those extra holiday calories!” she added.
Two self-guided hikes are offered at each park, and range from 1 – 3 miles long. The hikes are suitable for people of all ages and abilities and maps will be provided. Park staff at both Eagle Island and Hells Gate will be on hand to answer questions. The $5 motor vehicle entry fee will be in effect at both locations.
Free hot chocolate and a Heart Healthy potato soup provided by the Idaho Potato Commission will also be available at both locations. Eagle Island will have a bonfire on the beach, so hikers are encouraged to bring camp chairs and s’more supplies to enjoy the fire.
Dogs are welcome at both locations, but please keep them leashed. Zamzows of the Treasure Valley is providing doggie gift bags for four-legged friends at Eagle Island as well!
Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation is committed to promoting outdoor recreation in state parks as a way to address obesity, especially among children. Getting families outside and unplugged from electronic media creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources.
“We hope that hiking along the trails and taking in all the sights and sounds of beautiful Eagle Island and Hells Gate State Parks will become part of an individual or family’s regular exercise routine all year-round,” said Merrill.
America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to welcome the New Year by rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors during a healthy hike on January 1, 2013 at a state park close to home.
Visit www.americasstateparks.org to see more information about Idaho’s First Day Hikes.
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Idaho’s Department of Parks and Recreation manages 30 state parks and recreation areas throughout Idaho. The mission of the agency is to improve the quality of life in Idaho through outdoor recreation and resource stewardship.
The mission of the NASPD and America's State Parks is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health and economy.