Guided nature tour kicks off at 1pm around Olney Pond at Lincoln Woods as part of National First Day Hikes Event
PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is hosting a guided walking tour at Lincoln Woods State Park, in Lincoln, on New Year's Day. The two-and-a-half-mile hike around Olney Pond is part of the eighth annual First Day Hike event organized by the National Association of State Park Directors. Guided tours will be held in all 50 states as part of this one-day event.
"DEM is excited to participate for the eighth year in the First Day Hikes event and proud to host at Lincoln Woods State Park," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "Rhode Island has an amazing selection of historic parks and recreation areas where residents and visitors throughout the state can connect with nature and get active. These beautiful, world-class destinations connect Rhode Islanders with nature and are safe places to recreate and unwind. We are excited to highlight Lincoln Woods and its gorgeous scenic vistas as part of this event. What a healthy way to ring in the New Year!"
WHO: Guided tour led by Tom Rosa of DEM Parks & Recreation
WHERE: Lincoln Woods State Park Lincoln, Rhode Island
WHEN: Tuesday, January 1, 2019 1:00 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Participants should dress appropriately for the weather and wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes. The hike will take place on a paved, stroller-friendly path. Participants will park and meet in the main parking lot next to the beach. Pets on leashes are welcome. PrestoStrangO will distribute free coffee and hot chocolate to participants while supplies last and will have their full menu available for participants to purchase food. Registration is suggested; to sign up contact Tom Rosa at Tom.rosa@dem.ri.gov.
According to the National Association of State Park Directors, almost 55,000 people across the country collectively hiked over 133,000 miles during the guided tours organized last year as part of the First Day Hikes event. In Rhode Island, 55 people participated in the First Day Hike at Beavertail State Park in Jamestown. Tours are free and open to the public.
For more information about the hike, contact Tom Rosa at Tom.rosa@dem.ri.gov. In case of inclement weather, visit www.facebook.com/RIGreatOutdoors or call Tom Rosa at 401-667-6200 on December 31.
For more information about DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.