Brown County Democrat photo
Brown County State Park was named the sixth most beautiful state park in the country, according to a study done by Travel Lens.
Hoosiers are invited to usher in 2024 with other outdoor lovers at one of the many First Day Hikes offered Jan. 1 at Indiana’s state parks and lakes.
The hikes are organized by Indiana State Parks in cooperation with America’s State Parks. First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to foster healthy lifestyles and promote year-round recreation at state parks. They will take place in all 50 states, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Today there are planned group hikes at most state parks, including at the nearby Brown County State Park and Fort Harrison State Park.
At Brown County State Park both First Day Hike and horse ride are available. The self-guided hike will be available from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hikers should start at the Nature Center and walk or bike to the CCC Vista. There will be a fire and hot chocolate at CCC Vista. Horseback riders can join a group ride at 11 a.m., with the meet-up being at the Green Horne Shelter.
At Fort Harrison State Park, hikers can meet at Delaware Lake Shelter at 1 p.m. for a 2-mile hike on Harrison Trace, a paved trail. Hot chocolate will be provided while supplies last.
For more information on all the hikes available visit on.IN.gov/INStateParkEvents.
In addition to the hikes, state park inns will also be open for meals. Abe Martin Lodge at Brown County State Park will have a brunch beginning at 10 a.m. The Garrison at Fort Harrison State Park invites hungry hikers to check out their salad bar. More information is available at IndianaInns.com.
