Start 2018 With a First Day Hike at a Colorado State Park

Don't bother with New Year's resolutions. Just plan on starting out 2018 by taking a First Day Hike at a Colorado State Park.

Snow or no snow, many of the 26 Colorado State Parks have activities planned for the 2018 First Day Hike.

Taking a hike with Parks and Wildlife staffers will give your family not only a fun day, but a better understanding and appreciation of the park that will make other trips to that park in 2018 even more wonderful.

Below is a list of the State Parks in western Colorado who are hosting First Day Hike events. Entrance to Colorado State Parks requires a Parks Pass. Daily fees are $7 to $9 per vehicle.

Sweitzer Lake State Park
January 1st 10 a.m. to Noon
Meet at the Visitor Center for a hike around the lake. Learn about wildlife, waterfowl, and plant life. Find out how the salt on the ground was formed. Celebrate the new bridge that completes the trail around the lake.
Vega State Park
January 1st 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Meet at the Visitor Center for a hike through the aspens on the south side of the park. Count and identify birds and small animals. Also, identify animal tracks along the trail.
Rifle Falls State Park
January 1st 10 a.m. to Noon
Meet at Rifle Falls parking loop for a guided hike on Coyote Trail showcasing the incredible view from both the top and base of the falls. Locate and learn about the small limestone caves at the park. Because of the close proximity of water and freezing temperatures, expect conditions to be icy. Footwear with good traction is highly advised.
James M. Robb Colorado State Park - Connected Lakes Section
January 1st 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Meet at Kingfisher Parking Lot for a hike around Connected Lakes. Learn about the lakes, waterfowl, fish, and animals in the park.
Ridgway State Park
January 1st All Day
Four hikes guided by Parks staff are scheduled throughout the day. Call (970) 626-5822 for specific times. Hikers will view great scenery, learn about the lake and its ecosystem, and get information about the multiple recreational activities the reservoir offers.

Filed Under: Hiking, New Year's Day

Categories: Family, Holidays, Outdoors, Western Slope News