Experience the Mickelson Trail on Snowshoes

PIERRE, S.D. – The Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills, a trail known for hiking and biking in the warmer months, will introduce visitors to a different mode of transportation for the winter months. Trail users are invited to experience the trail by snowshoe during a series of snowshoe walks in January and February.

Hikes will be held at 1 p.m. on January 10 and 24 and February 7 and 28.  “The locations of the walks will be determined the week of the walk,” said Dana Garry, park manager for the Mickelson Trail. “It all depends on the snow conditions,” added Garry. In the event of no snow, a hike will be held.

Staff will teach basic snowshoeing skills while leading a three-mile nature walk along the trail. A limited number of snowshoes are available for participants to use; please call the Lead office at (605) 584-3896 ahead of time to reserve a pair. Participants are also asked to call the Lead office prior to the hike for information on where to meet.

“We’d also like to remind people that snowshoes are available for check-out anytime, not just during guided hikes,” said Garry. The shoes can be checked-out at the Black Hills Trails Office in Lead.

There is no cost to participate in the program, although a trail pass is required. Both day and annual trail passes will be available for purchase before the program. Participants are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather.

The Walk in the Park programs are a series of educational, guided hikes held throughout the year in South Dakota state parks and recreation areas. For more information on the Walk in the Park programs and for a full listing of events for 2009, visit the state parks website at http://www.sdgfp.info/Parks/Calendar.htm or call (605) 773-3391.

Up close and personal view of sharks!!!

Jelly-fish display

Sharks in the Smokies (C)
By Lisa Metheny

 Tennessee is one of my favorite places to visit, I love the Smoky Mountains, the charm of yesteryear, the sound of bluegrass music and the taste of sweet tea and fresh cobbler are just a few things that draw me back to this region year after year.

 The Smokey Mountain National Park offers an up close and personal look at wildlife as you meander along the famous “loop” drive that provides the visitors with a chance to see the parks most famous residents, the black bears.

 The Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area attract millions of people each year with the promise of endless shopping and a bountiful supply of every type of food your taste buds desire.

 Another must-see attraction in the Ripley’s Believe or Not® Aquarium located in downtown Gatlinburg. During a recent visit I had the opportunity to tour the aquarium, I admit that I am not typically excited about “indoor” act ivies, and the thought of looking through thick glass to watch salt water fish initially did not appeal to me. After a little convincing I gave it a go, I quickly turned into a child as I found myself wishing for more time as I watched dozens of sharks and thousands of vibrant salt-water fish dart in and out of vivid coral reefs.

 The Ripley’s Believe it or Not ® Aquarium is a must-stop-and-see location for anyone that visits this area. Visit their Web site for hours of operation and admission prices. For more information on exploring the many wonders of east Tennessee visit their Web site for an online tour of the area.

Be sure and take your camera as there is plenty to see. These photos were taken on a cell phone, which explains the poor quality!