JACKSON – Mississippi will sponsor free, guided and self-guided hikes in state parks on New Year's Day as part of America's State Parks 7th Annual First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states and Ontario Provincial Parks. America's 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 January 1, 2018, 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.
"We are excited to host First Day Hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into our parks. First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks," said Mississippi State Parks Director Jennifer Head.
The distance and rigor vary from park to park, but all hikes aim to create a fun experience for the whole family. Details about hike difficulty, terrain, and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on America's State Parks website. For more information visit,www.naspd.org or www.mdwfp.com.
Participating parks include:
Clark Creek
Time: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Clark Creek Natural Area, 366 Fort Adams Pond Rd., Woodville, MS
County: Wilkinson
This hike is on a self-guided, strenuous trail, so we recommend that you are in good physical health before attempting it. For more information, please contact Mark Cavin at (601) 888-6040 or by email at mark.cavin@hotmail.com.
Clarkco
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Clarkco State Park Lodge, 386 Clarkco Road, Quitman, MS
County: Clarke
Make plans now to hike the 3.5-mile trail at beautiful Clarkco State Park. For more information, please contact Manager Tony Fleming at (601) 776-6651 or by email at clarkcostatepark@mdwfp.state.ms.us.
LeFleur's Bluff
Time: 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: LeFleur's Bluff State Park, 3315 Lakeland Terrace, Jackson, MS
County: Hinds
This 1-mile trail hike at beautiful LeFleur's Bluff State Park will begin at the Mayes Lake side of the park at Pavilion 8. For more information, please contact Manager Karl Vriesen at (601) 987-3923 or by email at lefleur@mdwfp.state.ms.us.
Tishomingo
Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: Tishomingo State Park, 105 CR 90, Tishomingo, MS
County: Tishomingo
Come hike and enjoy the outcroppings and beauty of this park. For more information, please contact Tishomingo State Park at(662) 438-6914 or by email at TerryH@mdwfp.state.ms.us.
For more information regarding Mississippi State Parks visit www.mdwfp.com or call (601) 432-2200. Follow us on Facebook atfacebook.com/mdwfp or on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MDWFPonline.
