MONKS – To start the new year, 49 state parks are organizing first-day excursions on January 1, 2021. Outdoor excursions mark the centenary of Iowa State Park in 2021.
“We are thrilled with this opportunity for park visitors to help us celebrate the centenary by going outdoors with friends and family,” said Todd Coffelt, head of the DNR’s Parks, Forests and Preserves office. “These excursions are for everyone, even for those who have never visited a state park or done winter excursions. We invite you to join us to start the new year and enjoy nature.”
Last year, more than 1,400 people took part in New Year’s Eve tours of Iowa, doing more than 1,100 miles in total through dozens of state parks. Hikers can expect to be surrounded by the tranquility of the beauty of nature in the winter and experience spectacular views, beautiful surroundings and the cultural treasures that Iowa State Parks offer. Many parks will also provide hot drinks and snacks after the hike. Participants should dress according to the weather, including warm, weather-resistant boots.
The 49 participating state parks are the most numerous since the DNR began hosting the excursions nine years ago. For a complete list of the first excursions to Iowa State Park, including meeting places and start times for each park, visit www.iowadnr.gov/firstdayhikes.
The DNR is planning numerous special events to celebrate the 100thth anniversary of state parks throughout 2021 with the goal of celebrating, connecting and inspiring yowans to visit and care for parks now and in the future. Backbone State Park, near Dundee, northeastern Iowa, was dedicated in May 1920 and marks the beginning of the Iowa state park system. Find out more about centennial opportunities at www.iowadnr.gov/parks2020.
Backbone State Park:
Time: 1:00 PM
Meeting point: Old Barn, near the east gate of the park
Length of walk (miles): 1 mile
Difficulty: easy
Cancellation information: Call 563-924-2527
Important information: Enjoy the view of wildlife along the trail. Please dress for the weather.