Our Stories

Hike Together Yet Apart in North Dakota: Volunteer Spotlight

The NCTA sends a special thanks to the Chapter volunteers of North Dakota for the creativity they’ve shown while planning Trail Community engagement opportunities.

In December 2020, the newly formed Central Flyway Chapter hosted an on-your-own “12 Days of Christmas” hike that drew nearly 200 participants. Special thanks to Glee Mayer, Mark Zimmerman, and the Audubon Refuge Partners Inc. group for their help in promotion, and to Kathy Baer from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for pulling the hike together.

The Central Flyway Chapter also scheduled a “Where Eagles Fly” on-your-own hike event from January 29 to February 7, 2021 in conjunction with the Garrison Dam National Fish Hatchery. A 1.65-mile hike option followed the hatchery’s River Loop Trail while a 3.3-mile option continued onto the adjoining Hatchery Loop Trail. Informational signage about the Lewis and Clark expedition was available, as the River Loop Trail is part of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. The open water and wooded area is excellent habitat for bald eagles, as well. A scavenger hunt sheet for children was made available at the trailhead, and a selfie station was set up about one mile into the hike, encouraging trail users to share their experiences on social media.

In early February, the Dakota Prairie Chapter hosted a “Hike Together, Yet Apart” event that encouraged North Country Trail use and a virtual gathering afterward via Zoom to share stories.

Follow NCTinND on Facebook or reach out to the Chapters directly to stay updated on upcoming events.