GUERNSEY and GLENDO – In its 14th year, the First Day Hike event sponsored by Wyoming State Parks was successful in connecting people with nature, and encouraging enjoyment of the outdoors year-round, including in the middle of winter. Each park that participates will give-away an annual day use pass or a camelback and large bag of swag.
In Glendo, there were 32 people who turned up for the hike of Reflector Loop trail, viewing the wetlands before arriving back at the starting point of the Two Moon Group Shelter.
“We offered two different hikes, one a little easier and shorter and a longer one that had a slightly higher level of difficulty for the more adventurous participants,” Brian Johnson, Glendo State Park superintendent said. “At the end of the hike there was a chance to visit with park staff and to roast marshmallows for s’mores. It was a great way to kick off the New Year.”

Guernsey State Park also had a successful hike with 80 participants (plus three furry friends) from Cheyenne, Douglas, Guernsey, Lingle, Yoder, Slater, Wheatland and Torrington. Hikers checked in with Guernsey State Park staff members Cassie Wells, Mack Hawkins, and Tate Stoneking and learned about our new hiking trail pdf, park events, early bird parks pass registration and a new trail challenge.
Volunteer John Wells provided the hot water for drinks and a propane fire pit, since it was a little chilly at 34 degrees. Hikers could warm up by the fire in the castle while enjoying hot drinks and snacks. The short hike kicked off just after 1 p.m., led by Hawkings and Stoneking, with the weather cooperating with zero wind. While some hikers took the optional shorter route, most of the hikers completed the entire hike.
“It was a great day to speak to everyone and enjoy the day,” park superintendent Cassie Wells said.
In the coming year, Guernsey State Park has set up a trail challenge each month to encourage year-round hiking at the park, which kicked off with the first day hike. Each month, a new trail challenge is presented, and anyone who completes all 12 hikes could win some “amazing swag and bragging rights,” according to Wells. Participants can request a guide for their hike or go solo. For February, the challenge is the Tunnel Mountain Trail on a two- to four-mile intermediate level hike with great views of the west side of the park. To sign up, call 307-836-2335, or visit the Guernsey State Park Facebook page.
Keep an eye out on the Glendo State Park Facebook page for park events at Glendo Reservoir throughout the year.