Iowa DNR and ACCB to host First Day Hikes January 1

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Allamakee County Conservation Board (ACCB) will be hosting two First Day Hikes January 1 of the New Year, at Yellow River State Forest at 10 a.m. and at Pikes Peak State Park at 1 p.m. Hikers are asked to meet at the Forest Headquarters at 729 State Forest Road, Harpers Ferry at 10 a.m. or at the main shelter of Pikes Peak State Park at 1 p.m.

Participants are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather and conditions. If needed, snowshoes and trekking poles will be provided free of charge, but participants may bring their own.

First Day Hikes are a nationwide initiative held in state and local parks. In 2016 nearly 28,000 hikers hiked 66,000 miles January 1 in an effort to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. The hike will be led on designated trails by experienced staff of the Iowa DNR and the ACCB. No hiking experience is necessary and families are encouraged to attend.

In case of inclement weather, all cancellations and delays will be posted on the Allamakee County Conservation Board Facebook page the day of the event. For more information on this program or any program offered by the Allamakee County Conservation Board contact the office at 563-586-2996. For more information on the First Day Hikes throughout the state visit the Iowa DNR’s website at www.iowadnr.gov.