DCNR officials to join hikers at state parks

From staff reports

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources officials will lead hikers at several parks across the state as the agency sponsors free guided hikes in 29 state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative.

Among parks where DCNR officials will take part are Kinzua Bridge, Moraine, Pymatuning and Parker Dam.

For information on hiking start times, DCNR suggests calling the park offices as times vary.

“Our First Day Hikes help remind people that our state parks and forests are open for healthy outdoor adventures in all four seasons, including winter,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn said. “They are a great way to make a resolution to enjoy nature and get more exercise, and keep it on the first day of the year.”

In addition, Presque Isle State Park is offering New Year’s Eve or “Last Night” hikes for those who wish to ring in the new year with a hike. It begins at 10:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and concludes around 12:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day.

For more information, go to www.dcnr.state.pa.us, hit the right arrow key until the “events” button appears and then click on “events,” and from there scroll down the “Calendar of Events” page and look for “outdoor activities” on the right portion of the page and click “hiking and walking.”