Residents are invited to kick off 2019 by stepping back in time at an event held at Springbrook State Park.

As part of the Iowa State Parks’ First Day Hikes held on January 1st, Springbrook State Park in Guthrie County will go on a journey through time, beginning in the present and hiking back until they reach the Ice Age. There will be stops along the way as they explore historically and geologically significant sites within the park. Iowa Department of Natural Resources Training Specialist Anne Riordan shares the purpose of the First Day Hike, “The reason for January 1st is because it’s the first day of the year. A lot of people make New Year’s resolutions, whether you do or not, it may be a resolution to spend more time outside, be getting more exercise, to be doing more things with your family, whatever it might be it could be a part of that.”

Riordan adds, this event is important to encourage more people to spend time at their local state parks. The 2-3 mile hike will start at 10 a.m. at the campground gazebo. The event is free to attend, and hot chocolate will be available in the park office when participants head “back to the future.” Attendees are asked to dress accordingly for forecasted weather conditions.