·        Riders Can Still Register for 10th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek

·        Angostura Recreation Area Gears Up for August with Educational Programs

 

Riders Can Still Register for 10th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek

 

LEAD, S.D. – Openings still exist for riders to take part in the 10th Annual Mickelson Trail Trek, say park officials. The deadline to register for the Sept. 14-16 supported ride was originally July 15, but organizers will continue to accept registrations until the ride is full.

 

“There is still time to get in on this one-of-a-kind event,” said Harley Noem, supervisor for the Northern Hills Region of the Division of Parks and Recreation. “With the ride increasing in popularity every year, we did have to make the registration deadline a little earlier so we have enough lead time to organize everything, like ordering merchandise and arranging shuttle service. However, we do still have some slots available, and we will continue to take registrations for as long as we can.”

 

Registration can be completed online by visiting www.MickelsonTrail.com and by following the "Trail Trek" link. Materials for registering through the mail can also be downloaded from the trail website or by calling the Black Hills Trails office at (605) 584-3896. Registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

Noem encourages riders to sign up as soon as possible. “The Trek has more than doubled in size in the last three years,” he said. “We’re prepared for another record group this year, so it is important to get your spot as soon as you can – they’ll run out fast.”

 

Last year, 432 people rode in the Trek, including riders from 32 states.

 

Riders on the Trail Trek will cover 109 miles of the trail over three days, from Friday, Sept. 14 through Sunday, Sept. 16. The registration fee includes the trail pass, shuttle service, commemorative souvenirs, refreshments and some meals during each day’s ride. Riders are responsible for accommodations and mechanical support. The ride is open to all bicyclists 14 years of age or older.

 

The Trail Trek highlights the George S. Mickelson Trail as it winds through the heart of the Black Hills from Edgemont to Lead/Deadwood. The ride began as a celebration of the completion of the rails-to-trails project. It continues today to introduce new bicyclists to the trail and thank supporters for their long-standing enthusiasm for the Black Hills trail.

 

For more information on the Mickelson Trail or the Trail Trek, visit www.MickelsonTrail.com or contact the Black Hills Trail office at (605) 584-3896.

 

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Angostura Recreation Area Gears Up for August with Educational Programs

 

HOT SPRINGS, S.D. - Angostura Recreation Area has a full slate of interpretive and educational programs planned for the month of August. The programs, geared for kids with an interest in the outdoors, offer an interactive activity that will captivate the entire family. 

 

"Even with the low water levels in our reservoir, programming continues to attract several participants each weekend,” said district park manager, Willy Collignon.  “Many parents are taking advantage of the educational offerings and helping their children understand that the recreation area is still a treasure chest of natural resources." 

 

The list of weekend programs for August includes:

August 4 - Stampin' A Butterfly Habitat

August 5 - Construct a Rattlesnake

August 11 - Fashion a Fish

August 12 - Exploring Fossils

August 18 - Tracking Clues for Wildlife

August 19 - GPS Adventures for Kids

August 25 - Feathered Friends

August 26 - The Buffalo and the American Indian

 

On Saturdays, Cascade Campground hosts the first program at 9 a.m., followed by Horsehead Campground at 11 a.m. On Sundays, Horsehead Campground starts the day at 9 a.m., with Cascade Campground following at 11 a.m.

 

The programs start at the host site in each campground. Some activities require a guided hike into the nearby prairie settings and beach areas. All of the program equipment is furnished for the participants and reservations are not required.  Furthermore, each program offering can be used toward the requirements for the Angostura Junior Naturalist Program. Successful participants within the program can earn a certificate, embossed seal or embroidered patch.

 

Angostura is also hosting two special events in the month of August. The first activity is an Astronomy Night on Saturday, Aug.11. Participants will take a basic tour of the night sky and learn about several stars and their constellations. Angostura offers some of the best night viewing in the Black Hills, and its sandy beaches make for a comfortable setting. Interested participants should bring a lawn chair or beach towel, along with a pair of binoculars. The program begins at 9 p.m. at the Jost Shelter House (Shelter House #2).

 

The second special event will be held on Wednesday, Aug.15. A Nature Day Camp is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. This is the third and final Nature Day Camp for the 2007 season. The morning activities will expose participants to various nature crafts, with a reducing, reusing and recycling theme. The program is for kids ages 7-12; however, children under the age of seven are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. This event is being held in conjunction with the South Dakota - Great Day of Play.  Reservations are required and can be made by calling the park office at (605) 745-6996 or email at angostura@state.sd.us.

 

Each program is free for the general public. However, each vehicle entering the recreation area is required to have a park entrance license.  Daily and annual entrance licenses are available at the park.  For more information on Angostura Recreation Area or South Dakota State Parks contact the park office, visit www.SDparks.info or call (605) 773-3391. 

 

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