Dayton Bluffs in Ottawa to host First Day Hike

First 60 participants to get hot chocolate

The Ottawa City Council authorized a grant application for a project at the 253-acre Dayton Bluffs Preserve that would be put towards putting in accessible parking to replace a gravel lot and provide paths instead of woodchip and grass-covered trails.

The Dayton Bluffs Preserve in Ottawa will host its seventh annual First Day Hike on Wednesday – New Years Day.

First Day Hikes are held in many parks throughout the country in an effort to help people “start the year off on the right foot.” Started in Massachusetts in 1992, the concept of a First Day Hike went nationwide in 2012.

Anyone can participate in Dayton Bluff’s event at 2997 N. Route 71. Guided Hikes will begin at the preserve parking lot at 8 a.m. and again at 9 a.m. and highlight the history and nature of the preserve. No reservations are needed. Individual hiking also is allowed.

A bonfire will be maintained and the first 60 participants will be treated to a cup of hot chocolate.

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