With Gov. Mitch Daniels having designated Saturday, June 4, as Trails Day in Indiana, it’s time to hit the trail.

Each year Indiana joins states across the country in marking National Trails Day as a time to recognize America’s trails system and its countless supporters and volunteers. Saturday marks the 19th anniversary of National Trails Day.

The theme this year is “Made With All Natural Ingredients.”

Hoosiers are encouraged to experience everything the great outdoors has to offer, not just this Saturday, but any other day of the year.

“Indiana’s trails are natural treasures,” said Dale Brier of the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation. “They provide numerous recreational opportunities, bringing together family and friends, enhancing quality of life, and boosting tourism.”

To celebrate Trails Day, Indiana Dunes State Park is offering a special hike up Mount Tom at 10 a.m. Fort Harrison State Park is having a historic fort bike hike. Lieber State Recreation Area, Shades and Turkey Run state parks also will celebrate the day with special events.

At Interlake State Recreation Area in Lynnville, trail cleanup and maintenance activities will run from 9 a.m. to noon (CST). Lunch will be provided for volunteers.

“Every year more trails and opportunities are available to outdoor enthusiasts,” Brier said. “With the Hoosiers on the Move program, Indiana State Trails and Greenways & Bikeways ambitious plan, every Hoosier will be within 7.5 miles or 15 minutes from a trail by 2016.”

For more information about trails and Trails Day opportunities in Indiana, go to the DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation website athttp://www.in.gov/dnr/outdoor/2604.htm.

Contact:

Dale Brier, DNR Division of Outdoor Recreation, (317) 232-4072.