The North Dakota Park & Recreation Department (NDPRD) has issued a statewide “12 Months – 12 Hikes” challenge. To participate, just pick and hike one of the 20 qualifying trails. The trails are located in 12 participating state parks and you have a two-week period each month to complete a hike. You can complete your hikes all in one park or explore any of 12 locations across the state.
The North Dakota Geocaching Association (NDGCA) would like to help everyone complete the hiking challenge. To do this, we will be hosting an event in a different state park each month, so we can get together with other geocachers.
Everyone is welcome, even if you have never found a geocache. March’s theme is “Wear Green for Parks” hike. Bring a friend or leprechaun, dress in green, or simply come as you are and join us for a bit of socializing and then we will hike the Flicker Loop Trail at Fort Stevenson State Park. The Flicker Loop is an approximately 1-Mile-long trail. The trail meanders through a remnant of native prairie. Common native grasses found in these areas include needle-and-thread, western wheatgrass, blue grama, and little bluestem. Masks are required when gathered as a group and we will maintain social distancing. You can opt to snowshoe or cross-country ski this trail. The park rents cross-country skis for the day, if you don’t have any of your own, and are interested in trying them.
In the spirit of Saint Patrick's Day, Fort Stevenson State Park will be releasing 6 new caches to be found on March 17th.
Remember there is a $7 daily fee to enter state parks or an annual pass is required that can be purchased for $35.
Refreshments will be available after the hike, and maybe some door prizes.
For more information see the images for the about the “12-Month 12 Hike” challenge & Fort Stevenson Flicker Loop Trail map. https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/challenges, and https://www.parkrec.nd.gov/fort-stevenson-state-park
NOTE: If you are interested in renting equipment, please call the park number 701-337-5576 to make arrangements with staff to pick up the equipment.
DISCLAIMER & REMINDER: Masks and physical distancing are required. Should the COVID levels increase in severity in this area, this event may be cancelled.