WABASH VALLEY, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)– Every year on January 1st, Patty Shidler and her four grandkids know exactly what they’re going to do.
“Everybody knows, on January first we’re going to be at [Shakamak State Park] and we’re going to be walking,” she said.
It’s part of the “first day hikes” provided by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. These walks take place all across the state– and are a growing tradition.
In Rockville, dozens gathered at Raccoon Lake State Recreation area for the event. Local resident Beth Graves said it’s the opportunity to learn that she looks forward to most.
“This is a flood control lake, and a lot of times the only time you can see the stuff that the ranger is going to show us is when the water is down, so you always get to learn something new about the lake when the water is down,” she said.
But for Tonia Freeman– it’s the chance to meet new people.
“To meet friends that I haven’t met yet,” she said. “Start the new year with nature, do a little bit of earthing and exploring.”
Ross Plotkin, the interpretive naturalist for Indiana DNR who led the hike, said there’s something about the winter months– which see less traffic– that brings a calm to the park he thinks plays a big part in its popularity.
“Typically this time of year, people aren’t really encouraged to go out much. This is a great opportunity to get people outdoors, get them to see the park in a way they’ve probably not seen it before,” he said.
Back down in Shakamak, property manager Kenna Duguay said no matter the reason– she loves seeing the crowds each January.
“Our goal with the department of natural resources is to make memories naturally,” she said. “You’re out here and you’re making your memories at the beginning of the year, get out and get started no matter the temperature.”
Whether a resident brings their children– or a pet– Duguay said the goal stays the same.
“We’re going to have a great day, we’re going to have a full day of just getting outdoors,” she said.
And those on hand said once the time comes in 2025– they’ll be walking once again.
“I held my first one in 2015 on this same route, I had five people,” Plotkin said. “So if it’s anything to show how popular this is, oh yeah, we’re going to keep doing it.”
