Milo McIver to have pair of guided hikes on New Year’s Day

Published 3:21 pm Friday, December 20, 2024

Kick off the new year in style — with free parking and a healthy dose of nature.

Estacada’s Milo McIver State Park, 24101 S. Entrance Road, is featuring a pair of guided hikes on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1, as part of a statewide initiative. The free hikes (to go along with free parking that day) will be led by Oregon parks and Recreation Department through a partnership with America’s State Parks.

The first hike will be at 10 a.m. on the Dog Creek Trail, and the other at 1 p.m. on the Maple Ridge Trail.

Dog Creek Hike

When: 10 a.m.

Where: Trailhead at the Riverside Day-use Area parking lot

Distance: 0.5 mile

Terrain: Generally flat with a few bridge crossings. Compacted surface accessible to wheelchairs with some assistance

What: The guide will talk about the ecology of the park, including the Mount Hood watershed, clean drinking water, and the growing salmon and steelhead populations. Learn about the significance of the Pacific yew tree as well as other native plants found in the park. Leashed dogs allowed.

Maple Ridge Hike

When: 1 p.m.

Where: Trailhead at Riverbend Day-Use Area E parking lot (far end of lot)

Distance: 1 mile

Terrain: Moderate skill required, not wheelchair accessible, some elevation gain

What: The one-hour hike will take folks through an older forest in the park, exploring winter ferns, mossy canyons and expansive big-leaf maple groves. No dogs allowed.

If you have questions about access or have any requests, contact Park Ranger Nikolas Eie at 971-235-9516. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to Jan. 1.