Take a hike on New Year’s Day

PATEROS/BRIDGEPORT – Got any plans for New Year’s Day? How does a nature hike at two area state parks sound?

Alta Lake and Bridgeport State Parks are offering comprehensive hikes with park rangers at both locations at 1 p.m., Jan. 1.
Bridgeport State Park at 235A Half Sun Way, comprises more than 600 acres and 7,500 feet of shoreline along Rufus Woods behind Chief Joseph Dam.

Alta Lake State Park accessible via Otto Road two miles southwest of Pateros, is a 181-acre site on the north end of 220-acre Alta Lake.

Hikers will meet at the park welcome booths. Alta Lake’s is at the park entrance and Bridgeport’s is a short distance past the entrance gate.

The treks are of moderate difficulty and hikers are advised to dress for the weather conditions. That means warm clothes worn in layers and suitable sturdy footwear. Bring water, camera and binoculars, and dog leash if a dog comes along as a companion. Optional gear items include hiking poles, yak tracks for the feet, and maybe even snowshoes.

Hikers will have the opportunity to explore local flora, fauna, and geology. That will include observing avian species at Bridgeport and identifying animal tracks at Alta Lake. Leave No Trace hiking principles will be practiced.

Weather permitting, cocoa, coffee, snacks, and stories around a campfire will conclude the hikes. For more information call Alta Lake State Park at (509) 923-2473.