ATLANTA — Georgians of all ages will lace up their hiking boots and pull out their paddles as they celebrate National Trails Day on June 6. Public events are scheduled in many of the state’s most scenic parks and historic sites, such as Skidaway Island, Etowah Indian Mounds and Sweetwater Creek. Sponsored by the American Hiking Society, National Trails Day is held the first Saturday of each June and highlights 200,000 miles of trails that crisscross our nation.
While most events are set for Saturday, June 6, a number of programs will happen throughout the month. A partial listing of National Trails Day events is below, and more details can be found at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org. To make reservations for camping or lodge rooms, go online or call 1-800-864-7275. Georgia’s state parks and historic sites are operated by the Department of Natural Resources. To learn more about the American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day, go to www.AmericanHiking.org.
National Trails Day events
• Walk On the Wild Side Twilight Hike
Thursday, June 4, 7 -8:30 p.m. at Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge
Lace up your hiking shoes and see the nightlife of Panola Mountain. This adventure will introduce you to the evening world of the forest and swamps. Register in advance. Cost is $5 plus $5 parking. For information, call (770) 389-7801.
• Moonlight Paddle
Friday, June 5, 8-9:30 p.m. at Mistletoe State Park in Appling.
We’ll be on the water to watch the sunset, with several short stops for interpretation. We’ll return under a slightly lower moon at about 9:30. Reservations required. Cost is $30 plus $5 parking. For information, call (706) 541-0321.
• Sensory Awareness Night Hike
Fridays until June 26 at Skidaway Island State Park in Savannah
Hike the Sandpiper Nature Trail to learn about night creatures, and then awaken your senses with experiments on the trail. Meet at the Interpretive Center. Cost is $5 for parking. For information, call (912) 598-2300.