The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is preparing for their annual First Day Hike event, with several hikes around the state.

DNR Interpretive Naturalist and Educator Anne Riordan says that Springbrook State Park will be participating once again, with the day to start off from the gazebo. She tells Raccoon Valley Radio why they hold the First Day Hikes.

“Several of our state parks are having First Day Hikes, meaning January 1st hikes. Kind of just a good way to get the year started. A lot of people make New Year’s resolutions, and whether you’re someone who does that or not, it’s just a great time to start the year off by being outside in nature. And we’ve had a pretty easy winter so far, and I think that might continue to hold through the first day hike. We’ll see what happens.”

Riordan mentions that the Hikes have staggered start times, that way those interested in participating in more than one are able to do so.