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Audrey J

Beach Fanatic
Jan 8, 2012
385
46
www.Sowal.com
Time spent in nature is said to lift spirits and enhance moods. And if you're anything like me, the holidays flew by at a breakneck pace, you ate way too much, and you're in desparate need of some R&R. It turns out we're in luck!

St. Andrews State Park, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park and Grayton Beach State Park are starting us off on the right foot with ranger-led hikes on New Years Day in an effort to get more people outside...you know, that whole mood enhancement thing. Both parks will host America's State Parks First Day Hikes with free admission to the public. Added bonus: calorie burner.

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Fauna at St. Andrews State Park.

St Andrews State Park
St. Andrews State Park is hosting their First Day Hikes on January 1, from 9-10:30 am and from 1-2:30 pm. There are two trails in the park to choose from, Heron Pond and Gator Lake. The Heron Pond Trail starts at a Turpentine Still replica and winds through a number of plant communities where visitors may encounter wading birds and many small animals, including deer.

The trail at Gator Lake takes you on a scenic view around its namesake. The hike will span both trails, which are moderate in difficulty and cover approximately 1 mile. Participants should meet at the Heron Pond Trail head, next to the Turpentine Still. Wear comfortable shoes and bring drinking water and binoculars. Program is free with regular park entrance fees.

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The tall pines of Western Lake at Grayton Beach State Park.

Grayton Beach State Park
Grayton Beach State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Florida, with massive dunes, winding trails, abundant wildlife, and shimmering 100-acre Western Lake, one of many coastal dune lakes gracing Scenic Highway 30A.

Join Assistant Park Manager Patrick Hartsfield for a 2 1/2 mile hike through the forest on Jan. 1 from 9-11 am. Learn about local flora and fauna while breathing a heavy dose of fresh air to welcome the New Year. Participants will meet at the Grayton Beach State Park ranger station at 9 am on New Year's Day.

Grayton Beach consistently ranks among the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the United States, providing an idyllic setting for swimming, sunbathing and surf fishing and is the backdrop for golden sunrises and silver moonlit evenings.The 2,200-acre park features a boat ramp that provides access to the lake's brackish waters for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. Visitors can paddle a canoe or kayak on scenic Western Lake to get a closer look at a salt marsh ecosystem.

Not to be missed, a short nature trail winds through a coastal forest where scrub oaks and magnolias stand, bent and twisted by the salt winds. Hikers and bicyclists can enjoy more than four miles of trails throughout the pine flatwoods.

The trail has a moderate degree of difficulty and hikers are asked to wear/bring the following: hat, long pants, insect repellant, and closed toe shoes or hiking boots, bottled water. Sorry, but pets are not allowed. Minors 16 and under must be accompanied by a parent. Park admission fee at Grayton Beach State Park for Day-Use guests is $5 per vehicle or $2 per bicycle/pedestrian. For more information contact Patrick Hartsfield at 850-267-8300.

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Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is a beautiful preserve with beaches, coastal dune lakes, camping and trails

Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Join a Ranger for a family friendly hike on The Turpentine Trail at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park in Dune Allen Beach. This hike will start off with a short tram ride followed by a 1.5 mile hike traversing an area dominated by slash pines and some old growth longleaf pines. 9:00am - 10:30am.

Meet at the Tram stop adjacent to the main day use parking area behind the Ranger Station. Make sure that you are dressed in apparel appropriate for the weather. Don’t forget to bring binoculars, camera, water and wear comfortable, closed toed walking shoes.

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On New Year’s Day, America’s State Parks have all 50 states offering free, guided First Day Hike Programs. These hikes provide a means for individuals and families to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, exercising and connecting with nature. Last year nearly 28,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 66,000 miles throughout the country.

First Day Hikes are led by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers.The distance and rigor vary from park to park, but all hikes aim to create a fun experience for the whole family.People are invited to savor the beauty of the state park’s natural resources with the comfort of an experienced guide so they may be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures throughout the year.

Learn more about our local treasures at SoWal.com/Parks. Can't make it to SoWal? It's all good. Find a park near you.
 
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