From Bob Stovall

So you’re not going up Pikes Peak with the AdAmAn Club on New Year's Eve. That does not mean you can’t get out for a great hike that day.

The Friends of Cheyenne Cañon is planning a New Year's Eve daylight hike in Colorado Springs’ own natural mountain park, North Cheyenne Cañon. The goal of the hike is to wrap up the 2012 fundraising drive and to attract new members to The Friends of Cheyenne Cañon. This hike is open only to members and park volunteers.

Not a member? Not to worry

If you are not a member, there is no better time to join the Friends of Cheyenne Cañon and take advantage of all the opportunities the group offers for outdoor activity and education. Special deals on membership will be available the day of the hikes.

So prepare to say goodbye to 2012 and get ready for 2013. Here’s everything you need to know.

Date and Time:  Monday, December 31, 2012. Meet at 9:30 am. Hike starts at 10:00 and ends between 12:00 and 2:00 p.m.

Place:  Meet at Starsmore Discovery Center (at the end of Cheyenne Blvd.) Shuttle to the start of the hike at Upper Columbine trailhead near Helen Hunt Falls on Gold Camp Road.

Route:  Hike down Columbine Trail to mid-Columbine trailhead and ride down or hike Lower Columbine to Starsmore.

What to Bring:  Wear weather appropriate clothing in layers, water, snacks, lunch and hiking poles.

Reservations are required. Call 719-385-6086 by Noon on Sunday, December 30. Leave name and phone number as well as whether you are a member of TFOCC. If the hike should be cancelled due to weather or other reasons, you will receive a phone call by 8 a.m. on Monday.