Hikes for Your Health

Ranger led hikes every Wednesday and Saturday from 10am – 1pm starting Jaunary 15th, 2014. Is getting more exercise one of your New Year’s Resolutions? Want to avoid crowds at the gym, and would rather exercise outdoors, hiking and snowshoeing? Do you enjoy visiting national parks? On Wednesday, January 15th, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument will launch a new community health program called, “Hikes for Your Health.” These ranger-led hikes will vary in length from 2 – 5 miles. Depending on conditions, the hikes may either be on foot or by snowshoe. The Monument offers free snowshoes if needed. Participants must provide all other equipment and safety gear such as layered clothing, appropriate footwear, water, and snacks. Trekking or ski poles are recommended. Participants must be 10 years or older. The first hike for Hikes for Your Health will be to hike along the Sawmill Trail (2.3 miles). This hiking program is part of the National Park Service’s Healthy Parks, Healthy People US initiative working to reintegrate human, environmental, and ecological health into the mission of public parks and public lands. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.