Donald OR – For the eighth year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America’s State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day. Information about two hikes hosted at Champoeg State Heritage Area is below. The usual $5 parking fee will be waived Jan. 1 only.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. Registration—although not required—will help park staff plan for the hike and give park staff contact information should the hike be canceled because of weather or conditions.

Hike time:                              Two hikes, one at 10 a.m. and the other at 2 p.m.

Starting location:                   Visitor Center

Terrain and length of trail:     Moderate, two-mile hike on the Townsite Trail

Contact information:             503-678-1251 ext 222

Additional details:                  Hike through the old town site and out to the Territorial Government Monument. We’ll look for bald eagles, hawks, raptors, and river wildlife.  Dogs must be on a six-foot leash. Hike recommended for children at least eight years old.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.