COLEHARBOR—A little learning, a lot of fun, and a wonderful way to enjoy fresh air and exercise.
“We’re calling it the Ho, Ho, Ho hike,” said Mark Zimmerman, Bismarck. “Last year we did the 12 Days of Christmas. This year we’re featuring different Christmas traditions like the Christmas tree, Yule log, and such.”
Zimmerman was the guide for the initial Ho, Ho, Ho hike this past Sunday at Audubon National Wildlife Refuge. The temperature was above freezing and, despite strong wind, several participants enjoyed their time in the outdoors. The trail was colorfully marked with large candy canes.
Hikers had several informative stops to experience along the 2-mile route. The first stop featured Santa Claus and reindeer situated against a backdrop of a wooded draw.
“We came out today to see what the trail is about,” said David Brushwein, Bismarck.
His wife, Sara Brushwein, her mother, and dog Mattie were all in the group of hikers.
“Mom is wanting to do the 100-mile hike next year,” said Sarah Brushwein. “She is trying to convince me that I should do it with her.”
The hiking trail through Audubon NWR is part of the North Country Trail System that runs 4,700 miles from Vermont to Lake Sakakawea State Park. Hikers can earn a badge for hiking 100 miles on the North Dakota section of the trail.
The hiking trail traversed Sunday included the placing of bird friendly ornaments on a Christmas tree along the route. The ornaments included pine cones stuffed with a mixture of shortening and seeds, all high energy food for birds facing a few more months of winter.
During the hike Zimmerman pointed out a variety of tracks in the light snow cover made by wildlife common to the refuge. He also answered questions from the group as they arose.
“Last year when we did the 12 Days of Christmas we had almost 200 people come out,” stated Zimmerman. “A lot of people came with their families. They'd bring their kids and hike and observe wildlife. It was fun to see.”
While Sunday’s was a “guided” hike, the Christmas-themed trail is open for “self-guided” hikes through January 1, 2022. However, noted Zimmerman, that only marks the time when the decorations will be removed from the trail.
“People can always come to Audubon NWR at any time and hike the trail,” said Zimmerman.
The hiking trail begins at the Audubon NWR Visitor’s Center. Hikers are encouraged to check on trail conditions on Facebook at NCTA Central Flyway Chapter or Audubon Refuge Partners, Inc.
