Newtown Hikers has announced its winter 2021 schedule, which has hikers continuing to follow COVID-19 precautions.

The group welcomes anyone interested in hiking. There is no membership fee.

Hikers participate at their own risk and are asked by Newtown Parks & Recreation department to sign a release at their first hike.

Hikers are advised to bring water and a snack. There is no lunch break during winter hikes as the average hike time is about 90 minutes. Rain or snow cancels hikes.

Those planning to participate should also note that extreme snow or ice conditions may also cancel hikes. Check with the leader, as noted below with each planned outing.

Children are welcome with an adult. Dogs are welcome when permitted but must be on a leash. Some trails do not allow dogs; check with trail leaders.

Schedule coordinator Sally Cox can also be reached for additional information at 203-426-9903, 203-830-9032 or newtownhikers@gmail.com.

Winter hikes start at approximately 9:30 am, at the trailhead. Times may vary with the leader and depending on location; again, check listings for details.

Most hikes are considered moderate (three to five miles with some elevation). More challenging hikes are noted.

Due to the continued presence of COVID-19, the following precautions will continue to be observed:

*The group will be limited to no more than ten.

*Hikers must sign up with the listed hike leader the week before the hike.

*Hikers should notify the hike leader ASAP if they must cancel in order to open up a spot for someone else.

*Hikers should ride share only if comfortable, and masks are advised.

*Hikers must maintain a distance of six feet at the trailhead and on the trail.

*Hikers should wear or bring masks for situations where it may be difficult to social distance.

*Hikers should not attend if they feel unwell or think they may have been exposed to the virus.

Upcoming hikes, with leaders and contact information, include:

January 16: Monroe Bike Trail, Cutlers Farm Road, Monroe, parking is in lot on the corner of Cutlers Farm Road and Pepper Street (leaders are Lorraine and Greg Branecky, 203-426-2372);

January 23: Janie Pierce Park, 200 Transylvania Road, Southbury (Christa Troiani, 203-751-0297);

January 30: Williams Park, 185 Whisconier Road, Brookfield, opposite Brookfield Library (Sally Cox, 203-830-9032);

February 6: no trail destination or leader yet (contact Sally Cox if interested in leading, or closer to date for updated plans);

February 13: New Milford River Trail, Boardman Road, New Milford (Linda Dunn, 203-207-1765);

February 20: no trail destination or leader yet (contact Sally Cox if interested in leading, or closer to date for updated plans);

February 27: Flanders/Van Vleck Nature Center, 5 Church Hill Road, Woodbury (Nancy Ziegler, 203-206-6510);

March 6: Richter/Farrington Park Trail, 100 Aunt Hack Road, Danbury (Sally Cox, 203-830-9032); and

March 13: White Memorial/Pine Island Trail, 80 Whitehall Road, Litchfield (Jim Steck, 845-621-5559 or 914-806-4107).