First Day Hike 2017, Mines of Spain State Recreation Area

Where:                                                E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center
8991 Bellevue Heights, Dubuque
When:                                                  January 1, 2017 at 1:00 PM
Trail Name:                                      America’s State Tree Woodland Walk
Length (miles) & Difficulty:     1.5 miles, Easy

Free, guided hikes will take place in 25 Iowa state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. All 50 states will participate in the sixth annual national event that encourages everyone to celebrate the New Year with a guided outdoor exploration.

Join the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area as we hike the America’s State Tree Woodland Walk through tallgrass prairie, past trees and signage for all 50 states. Soak up the fabulous panoramic view at the top of the trail. Coffee, hot chocolate and cookies will be available at the E.B. Lyons Interpretive Center after the hike. Please dress appropriate for hiking in winter weather conditions.

Try out the free, kid-friendly “Discovery Agents” app on your smartphone to have fun learning about your surroundings as you complete challenges to earn a Junior Ranger badge. The app is available for free download on your phone’s app store.

For more information on this event, please contact the Mines of Spain State Recreation Area park office at 563-556-0620. – Jennifer Stromberg/Natural Resources Technician