Gloucester Parks, Recreation and Tourism is encouraging residents to come out and hike the nature trails at Beaverdam Park, with three organized hikes planned for the coming weeks, beginning with a Shortest Day Hike next Thursday.

The Shortest Day Hike, on the winter solstice, will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21. The registration fee for this two-hour hike is $5 and the deadline to register is today.

A 9.5-mile First Day Hike will be held on Monday, Jan. 1, beginning at 10 a.m. The registration fee is also $5 and the deadline to register is Dec. 25.

A National Birding Day Hike with a local Master Naturalist will be held from 9-11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 6. Birders are encouraged to bring binoculars and camera. The fee is $5 per person and the deadline to register is Dec. 30.

Those attending any of the hikes are advised to dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes and bring along water and snacks.

For more information on these and other activities, call PRT at 8...