Out There – New Year’s hikes, events at state parks
By Christopher Miller
Local state parks put on annually a plethora of events for the public to take part in. One of my most favorite events to really “start off on the right foot” are the First Day Hikes.
This year, even though you may have a drive a bit to get to them, some regional state parks are putting on their own First Day Hikes and some other fun and interesting events to end 2023 and begin 2024.
Black Moshannon State Park
Monday, January 1, 2024 9 AM to 10 AM
First Day Hikes! Bog Treasures
Take a stroll on the boardwalk to see the unique plants and animals that call the bog home. The hike will be approximately 1/2 mile long on a wooden boardwalk. If there is no snow/ice, the trail is ADA accessible and stroller friendly. Please email blackmoshannonee@pa.gov or call the park office at 814-342-5960, if you need updated conditions before coming out for the hike.
Black Moshannon State Park
Monday, January 1, 2024 1PM to 3 PM
First Day Hikes! Lake Loop Trail
Take a hike on the Lake Loop Trail to see a beaver lodge up close and look for signs of wildlife. This trail is one mile long and is mostly flat with roots and rocks on it. It is not stroller-friendly. Meet at the Environmental Learning Center.
Black Moshannon State Park
Monday, January 1, 2024 5 PM to 6:30 PM
UV Night Hike
Looking for something different to do on New Year’s Eve? Take a stroll on the bog trail to see the unique plants and animals that live there. On the way back, we will use the provided UV lights to see which plants glow! Pre-registration required. Register by clicking on the green registration button. You should receive a confirmation email. If you do not, please email blackmoshannonee@pa.gov or call the park office at 814-342-5960.
Elk Country Visitor Center
Sunday, December 31, 2023 9 AM to 12 PM
Deer Family
“Moose, Elk, Caribou, and Whitetail Oh My!” The Deer family has quite a few members! Join our staff as we learn about the elk and their many cousins that live in North America. You are sure to learn something new along the way!
Raymond B. Winter State Park
Monday, January 1, 2024 10 AM to 12 PM
First Day Hike
Kick off the New Year 2024 with an easy to moderate hike at RB Winter State Park. Led by the Park Manager and Friends of RB Winter, we will walk a one mile loop with an option for two more miles. This is a family-friendly program. Be sure to dress for the weather, with layers for comfort, warmth, and to stay dry. We will meet by the Environmental Learning Center in the back parking lot, off of Sand Mountain Road. Please call the park office with any questions or concerns, especially about the weather conditions.
Sinnemahoning State Park, 40 Maples Day Use Area
Monday, January 1, 2024 10 AM
First Day Hike
Start the New Year on the right foot with an easy 2.5-mile guided hike on fairly level trails. Learn the importance of conifer trees to wildlife as we scout for tracks and traces of the animals that live in the park. Hike will be held rain or shine. A limited number of snowshoes available if needed. Dress for the weather and bring water. Good for all ages. Well-behaved dogs on short leashes are welcome. No pre-registration required. Meet at Pavilion 1 in the 40 Maples Day Use Area.
