Winter Hiking to Start Off the New Year

ZANESVILLE, OH – Hiking in winter might be cold, but Dillon State Park has activities planned for the new year.

The first hike of 2024 will be next Saturday January 6. While it might feel better to stay warm and inside, Dillon State Park Naturalist Mike Durst says winter is the perfect time to see animal activity.

“Winter, especially around the park in particular, is a great time to see hawks and eagles,” Durst said. “When you’re out on the trail you normally can’t see them because the trees are filled out over your heads, but when you’re out there and take a look up you might see some birds flying overhead.”

Next Friday January 5 is the first coyote program of the season. It is a park after dark event that starts at 5 p.m. around a fire. Participants get to learn more about the animal under the stars.

Although not everyone will be at the park after dark event, Durst has some winter hiking safety tips.

“You definitely want to make sure you’re dressed for the weather with nice sturdy footwear on. It’s a good idea to have water and snacks on you just in case. Make sure you know what to expect. Take a look at the weather before you head out and make sure you have appropriate attire on and are nice, bundled up and safe just in case anything were to happen,” Durst said.

If anything were to happen, hikers can call #ODNR or 911 for emergency help.

There is also a naturalists nature book club through the Muskingum County Library System. The club meets a couple times a month at a cabin in Dillon Park. Participants can register through the library’s website.

This article was submitted by WHIZ News Intern Alison Patton.