JACKSONPORT, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — It bills itself as a great way to step into the New Year.
The Department of Natural Resources is hosting first day hikes around the state on Saturday, including at Whitefish Dunes State Park.
Park leaders say winter is a good time to visit the 865-acre site near Jacksonport. Whitefish Dunes State Park Manager Sarah Stepanik says it’s a good way to start getting into shape–like you might be promising yourself.
“We’re always looking for ways to increase our interaction with our visitors. We want to give as many people an opportunity to come out and experience the park as possible,” said Stepanik.
Stepanik says that’s why the park is hosting a first day hike event, for the very first time.
“It’s just kind of a way to welcome people to the park for the first of the year, and hopefully kickstart some of those New Year’s resolutions,” she said.
About seven miles of trails will be available to use. The self-guided trek includes refreshments at the end.
“People are invited back to this picnic shelter after the hike for a warm fire, both inside, and we’ll have a fire pit outside going as well. We’ll have some hot cider and hot chocolate available for people to warm up with,” said John Swanson, Friends of Whitefish Dunes President.
Swanson says he expects hundreds of people to attend.
“We’ll get people out to see what the trails looks like during the winter time, and how unique and different they are, and come back all winter long to see how the seasons change during the winter with the snowfall,” he said.
The Saturday event is free, but a daily pass, or annual vehicle sticker is required to enter state parks.
First Day Hikes started 10 years ago, and are held in all 50 states.
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