This year, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources invited Iowans to participate in the 2021 First Day Hike Challenge on their own through the digital State Park Passport, replacing the traditional guided hike.

Between Friday and Sunday, park visitors at any of the more than 50 participating state parks can check in on the passport for a chance to a two-night stay at a two-bedroom Lake Darling State Park cabin near Brighton.

This weekend, every park visit counts as an entry into the drawing. Visitors can go as often as they like. More suggestions and directions can be found under the “more info” tab of the DNR’s website at iowadnr.gov/firstdayhikes.

A few local entries were earned as Pete Wilcox, of Webster City, returned with his Samoyed, whose fluffy cream-tone fur was a darker contrast to the fresh white snow on the trails Friday than it was on muddy trails in 2020’s First Day Hike.

-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious A red-headed woodpecker breaks the soothing silence of a brisk winter day on Friday at Brushy Creek State Recreation Area with persistent taps.

He got local Kennel Club members Jeff Terry and Beth Collins to join him — a fun way to socialize safely outdoors — with Darwin, a golden retriever, and Fozzie and Ash, miniature Australian shepherds.

Fozzie, just over 3 months old, enjoyed her first new year as the snow crunched, geese honked overhead and woodpeckers tapped from a distance.

No word yet on whether each canine visitor also counts as an entry.

Last year, more than 4,300 people participated in hikes on New Year’s Day across Iowa. The local hike at Brushy Creek noted record attendance, as well.

Hikers have long enjoyed the tradition of starting the new year immersed in the quiet beauty of nature in winter while experiencing spectacular views, beautiful settings and cultural treasures offered by Iowa State Parks.

-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious
Rossi, a white Samoyed on her second New Year’s Day hike in the woods, excitedly pulls owner Pete Wilcox, of Webster City, through Brushy Creek State Recreation Area.

-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious
In the dead of winter, even the least attractive weeds and flowers find a refreshing new look after being glazed by ice and snow in a blizzard.

-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious
Jeff Terry, left, follows with pup Fozzie as Pete Wilcox leads with Rossi. The local Kennel Club members try to get out regularly with their dogs, and New Year’s Day was a perfect chance to do so, distanced from each other.

-Messenger photo by Elijah Decious Ice fishers await the first bites of 2021 on Brushy Creek.