First Day Hike at William M. Tugman, Jan. 1

WINCHESTER BAY, Ore. – For the ninth year in a row, 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 William M. Tugman State Park is below. Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/ParkStoreEvents. This year’s hike is limited to 25 participants. 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: Eel Lake boat ramp; Terrain and length of trail: Moderate, six-mile hike on the Eel Lake South Trail; Contact information: 541-271-4118; Additional details: Hike along Eel Lake through a mixed conifer forest, with beautiful views and multiple small foot bridge crossings. Dogs permitted on a six-foot leash. Please, no child strollers due to terrain. Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Shhare photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.