The MN DNR is encouraging people to get outside this winter. The America’s State Parks organization is spearheading a nationwide effort to connect people to the outdoors. It's called First Day Hikes and hikers from all 50 states will welcome the new year with an outdoor hike. First Day Hikes will take place at 10 Minnesota State Parks on Wednesday January 1^st. The parks included are Blue Mounds, Fort Snelling, Jay Cooke, Lake Bemidji, Maplewood, Minneopa, Nerstrand-Big Woods, Sibley, Whitewater and Wild River state parks. There is no participation fee but some of the hikes require pre-registration and some of the parks do have vehicle permit fees. You can find the details at mndnr.gov/firstdayhike