Nevada State Parks Offer Free New Years Hikes

The Nevada State Parks has annually offered free park admission on the first day of the New Year, for the Free First Day Hikes. On Jan. 1, Echo Canyon and Kershaw-Ryan State Parks will host the hikes for the first day of the year for 2015.

Starting at 9 a.m., Echo Canyon hikers will meet at the Ash Canyon Trailhead which is located inside the main campground.

Warm clothes are suggested, along with sturdy shoes or boots. Bring water or something to drink, and your four-legged friends are welcome also, as long as they are on a leash. Call the ranger station for any questions at 775-962-5102, or email [email protected].

At 1 p.m., the Kershaw-Ryan State Park will meet at the day use area at the top of the park, and will hike the Canyon Overlook Trail. Again, dress for the weather and have sturdy shoes. The ranger can be reached at 775-726-3564 or email [email protected]

The annual Ice Hole Golf Tournament is slated for Jan. 17 and 18 at the Spring Valley State Park, weather permitting. As of right now, ice is needed to freeze the top of the reservoir. Golfers will putt nine holes on ice. Some additions have been made to the fun this year. 9 a.m. is the tee off time. At 11 a.m., the nine ball pool on ice will start, and at Noon, ice horse shoes. At 1 p.m. there is a Hole-n-Won contest.

The second day of the invitational will have frisbee golf at 9 a.m. and another Hole-n-Won at Noon. Prices to compete are $10 per person for golf and frisbee and $10 per team ice horse shoes.