Photo by Syd Brown, taken on Dec.17, 2017

December 26, 2017 – Start the New Year out right with a hike—soak up some fresh air, take in the sights and smells of the forest, and get those muscles activated, with a First Day Hike sponsored by the Friends of North Bloomfield and Malakoff Diggins. The 3+ mile hike is part of a national event; encouraging people to experience the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors, led by an experienced guide.

This year’s hike will be led by retired State Park geologist Syd Brown. First Day hikes not only honor fitness resolutions, but they are designed to inspire us to take advantage of our local State Park treasures throughout the year. #HikeInto2018 #FirstDayHike, #CAStateParks, #FriendsofMalakoff, #MalakoffDiggins

Name of trail: Rim Trail

Time of hike: Jan. 1, 2018, 1 pm

Meeting location: Museum/Park Office

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park
23579 North Bloomfield Road
Nevada City, CA 95959

Degree of difficulty (Moderate)

Minimum age for children (8 years)

Please leave your dogs at home

Length of hike: ~3.3 miles

Cost: $5 parking fee, using selfpay envelope

Things to bring: Water, snacks. Dress in layers, we plan to hike in sun, rain, or snow, but do check http://malakoffdigginsstatepark.org/ for hike updates. (Click on the Frist Day Hike logo on the right margin of the webpage.)

Additional information: The trail runs along the upper rim of the Diggins; affording visitors views of the spectacular pit and canyon walls excavated by hydraulic mining in the late 1800’s. The landscape continues to heal, with natural re-vegetation softening the dramatic effects of the gold mining activities. The hike will be led by local geologist and Friends of North Bloomfield & Malakoff Diggins Executive Committee member Syd Brown.

California State Parks First Day Hikes Homepage: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=27631

History of America’s First Day Hikes: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=27631

First Day Hikes originated in Massachusetts in 1992 and are sponsored each year by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).

Since 2012, First Day Hikes have been held in all 50 states and marketed as America’s State Parks First Day Hikes. January 2018 marks the year that First Day Hikes will become an international movement with Ontario Parks in Canada offering First Day Hikes.

Since 1992 in Massachusetts, and since 2012 in the nation, January 1st has become synonymous with our state parks and helps us promote our beautiful public lands, year-round recreation, and foster healthy lifestyles.