Parks officials: Start new year with a hike in Wisconsin

MADISON (AP) — Wisconsin state parks officials say a New Year's Day hike would be a great way to start 2015.

The Department of Natural Resources is hosting First Day Hikes events at 11 state parks Thursday. The hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America's State Parks to get people outdoors, with over 400 hikes scheduled this year in all 50 states. Participants are encouraged to use the hashtag #firstdayhikes to share their experiences on social media.

State parks employees and volunteers will be leading the hikes.

Friend of Mirror Lake State Park president Cindy Cseri says the hikes encourage residents to explore popular summer destinations in a different season.

CLICK HERE for a complete list of the First Day Hikes in Wisconsin.