Hike Wyoming State Parks and Historic Sites while they're still open

Wyoming's state parks and historic sites are treasures. This year, they mark their 75th anniversary. Lots of time and effort has gone into upgrading facilities the past ten years. But unnecessary, Tea Party-inspired legislative budget cuts loom that may soon cut hours and staff and services at the parks. 

So it's a good time to hike these sites on New Year's Day:

For the second consecutive year Wyoming residents can begin the year with eight New Year’s Day guided hikes held at Wyoming Divisionof State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails venues statewide.

The hikes are held in conjunction with similar hikes held in all 50 states; a part of the America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative.

These first day hikes were very successful for the Division as last year we had over 500 participants statewide,” State Parks Administrator Domenic Bravo said. “ Last year we only had four parks participating and this year we have doubled that.  First Day Hikes is an initiative of the National Association of State Parks Directors and the America's State Park Foundation, encouraging people to get outside and healthy on January 1 and enjoy one of the many close to home treasurers that the 50 states have to offer.”

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park or historic site. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the America’s State Parks website.  Visit www.americasstateparks.org to find a First Day Hike nearest you.

In Wyoming, hikes will be offered at the following locations and times:

Bear River State Park - Short nature hike along the Bear River.  Hike distance will vary upon participant’s abilities.  Begin at 10 a.m.

Boysen State Park- There will be two hikes along the Wind River of varying difficulties. Begin at 10 a.m.

Curt Gowdy State Park – Up to four mile hike on a trail to be determined. Meet at Aspen Grove Trail head at 1 p.m.

Edness K. Wilkins State Park – There will be two walks.  One will be wheelchair accessible and the other will be on natural surface on the nature trail. Each 2 miles.  Begin at 10 a.m.

Fort Bridger State Historic Site – one mile hike/walk around the historic site. Meet at entrance booth at 1 p.m.

Glendo State Park – A three mile hike around Two Moon Trails and newly constructed Towers trail.  This hike will be held on Saturday, January 5^th at 10 a.m.

Guernsey State Park - Hike will begin and end at the yurts and will be approximately 3 miles in length. The terrain will be a mixture of level to rolling hills.  Begin at 10 a.m.

Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site - 1 mile hike on the "Deer Path" trail covering level and areas of slightly steep terrain.  Begin at 10 a.m.

Participants are urged to wear adequate clothing, coffee and hot chocolate will be provided, Bonn Fire at most locations, this is a kids and family friendly event, entry fee to participating parks will be waived.

RSVPs are requested but not required. Please RSVP by emailing Paul.Gritten@wyo.gov.

For more information, please call the Wyoming Division of State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails at 777-6323.