COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites families and friends to celebrate the New Year with a free “First Day” hike on New Year’s Day at Shawnee State Park near Portsmouth.
The hike is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. on Sunday, January 1 at the Shawnee State Park Lodge. Participants are urged to arrive half an hour early to register. Cookies and hot drinks will be served after the hike in the lodge.
The family friendly guided hike along the Lampblack Trail will last approximately two hours. The scenic one-mile loop is moderate in difficulty, with one hill climb.
First Day hikers can enjoy the quiet beauty of nature in winter, with views and vistas unimpeded by foliage. The park manager will be on hand to discuss the ecology of the forest, and point out the birds and wildlife that frequent the forest in winter.
As an added incentive, the Shawnee State Park Lodge is offering a special reduced rate of $89 for a standard double room the evening of Sunday, January 1. For reservations, call 1-800-282-7275 or reserve on-line at
www.ohiostateparks.org.
Hikers are advised to dress warmly with layers of clothing, in addition to hats and gloves. Sturdy hiking boots or waterproof shoes are also recommended, as the trails may not be cleared if there is snow.
The Shawnee hike is part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offered at state parks around the country to encourage families and children to connect with the outdoors and adopt healthy lifestyles.
For more outdoor recreation ideas and events this winter, please go to
www.ohiodnr.com and click on
Ohio's Winter Escape button.
The ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Web site at
www.ohiodnr.com.
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For more information, contact:
Jean Backs, Ohio State Parks
614. 265. 7077
Martin McAllister, Shawnee State Park
740. 858. 6652