First Day Hikes
By Dale Gathright, Jr., 12/27/21 10:19 PM
Two southwest Arkansas State Parks are participating in First Day Hikes this Saturday, January 1st.
MILLWOOD STATE PARK – The annual First Day Hike at Millwood State Park is this Saturday, January 1st. Meeting place will be at Trailhead Parking Lot at 2:00 pm. You will meet with one of the park’s staff at the trailhead parking lot just off the entrance road. The Waterfowl Way trail is an easy 1.5-mile loop, taking approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Hikers should have comfortable warm hiking shoes, dress in layers for the weather, and bring any water or snacks you may need along the way. Waterfowl flock to the lake this time of the year, so bring binoculars if you have them.
Hikers are encouraged to log their completed hikes and miles (that take place in State Parks on those days) at https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/first-day-hikes. “We are excited to discover how many hikers cover how many miles in our State Parks that weekend and we will send a free Arkansas State Park hiking sticker to each person in your group!”
The visitor center is closed on January 1, but a hike begins at 10 a.m. at the Spring Branch Trail trailhead. The trail is approximately 1/3-mile and considered easy. The hike should take approximately 1 hour and participants are encouraged to wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear.
White Oak Lake State Park has 4 trails available to you. Maps may be obtained at the visitor center during regular business hours. Click on each link below for more information.
Beech Ridge Trail
Coastal Plain Trail
Fern Hollow Multi-Use Trail
Spring Branch Trail
