Lace up those hiking boots and kick off 2021 with others across the country during the First Day Hike at John James Audubon State Park in Henderson, Kentucky, on Friday, Jan. 1.
This event is a part of a nationwide initiative in state parks across the U.S., spanning from the east to west coasts, to encourage people to get out of their homes and take in the beauty that national parks have to offer. According to the American Hiking Society, last year’s New Year’s Day hiking event saw nearly 55,000 participants, logging more than 133,000 miles hiked throughout the country’s wilderness.
While these hikes are normally guided by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers, this year’s event at the Audubon is taking on a virtual twist. From 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., hikers can take to a one-mile trail where park naturalist Lisa Hoffman has set up info spots with QR codes. Simply scan the code with your phone’s camera, and a short YouTube video will explain different parts of the park.
Hikers are encouraged to participate solo or with family and friends at their own pace. To be counted in the First Day Hike numbers afterward, contact Hoffman through email at lisa.hoffman@ky.org or call 270-826-2247 ext. 228 to confirm your participation. Hikers are asked to remember social distancing practices and to wear a mask whenever possible to protect yourself and fellow hikers.
Remember to dress appropriately for cold weather hiking! Friday’s weather calls for a high of 59 degrees with a 76 percent chance of showers.
For more information, head over to facebook.com/johnjamesaudubonstatepark.
