Condon 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 the special hike hosted at Cottonwood Canyon State Park is below.

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:                              10 a.m.

Starting location:                   Experience Center

Terrain and length of trail:     Moderate three-mile hike on the Pinnacles Trail. We recommend the hike for children at least 10 years old.

Contact information:             (541) 394-0002

Additional details:                  The Pinnacles trail follows the John Day River canyon through stunning geologic formations in a natural desert landscape. Look closely for mule deer, red-tailed hawk, and our resident herd of California bighorn sheep. Baby strollers are not recommended. Dogs must be on a six-foot leash.

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.