On January 1st, you will have the opportunity to hike through a part of Newport State Park as the park participates in a First Day Hike event. The First Day Hike is a nationwide event led by America's State Parks to encourage people to get out and explore the outdoors. According to the American Hiking Society, nearly 55,000 people participated in the hike last year, with a conjoined distance of 133,000 miles throughout the country. Newport State Park has participated in this event for many years and is excited to bring it back this year. One of the co-presidents of the Friends of Newport State Park, Mark Glasser, describes what is in store for hikers this year and his feelings about the experience.
Hikers will meet at parking lot #1 on Saturday to begin the journey promptly at 9 am. Although a park pass will be required to enter the park, no reservations will be required. Glasser does suggest that if you plan on participating in the event, you should be mindful of what you wear. Warm clothes and boots are recommended in case of chilly weather. First Day Hike participants are invited by the Wisconsin DNR to share their experience by using the hashtags #OutWiGo and #FirstDayHike on Instagram.
