Even in the winter, Newtown Hikers continues to host weekend events for those who enjoy being outdoors regardless of the weather.

In this season, hikers meet at each weekend’s selected trailhead at 10 am.

Winter hikes are generally closer in location, flatter with some hills but not steep. If conditions permit, there are occasions to snowshoe. All are advised to bring some type of tracking device for their boots as conditions can be icy in the woods.

Registration is requested with each week’s hike leader, as is the courtesy of a call if plans change and you cannot join the group as planned.

The Newtown Hikers is sponsored by Newtown Parks and Recreation. There is no membership fee

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

Hikers are advised to bring water and a snack. Winter hikes are approximately 30-90 minutes. Rain or snow cancels hikes. Also, extreme ice or snow conditions may cancel hikes.

Children are welcome with an adult. Dogs are usually welcome — although some locations do not allow them — but they must be on leash at all times; always check first with the hike leader before showing up with a dog.

Check with the leader for any concerns. Schedule Coordinator Sally Cox can also be contacted for additional information at 203-830-9032 or newtownhikers@gmail.com.

February-March Schedule

The remaining planned hikes this season are as follows:

*February 12, Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve, 55 Great Hill Road in Newtown (hike leader is Linda Dunn, 203-207-1765);

*February 19, Johnson Farm Preserve, 37 W. Mountain Rd #2 in Washington (Christa Troiani, 203-751-0297);

*February 26, Flanders/VanVleck Nature Center, 5 Church Hill Road in Woodbury (park on right; hike leader Nancy Ziegler, 476-206-6510);

*March 5, Williams Park, 185 Whisconier Road in Brookfield, opposite Brookfield Library (Sally Cox, 203-830-9032);

*March 12: hike and leader TBD (contact Sally Cox closer to this hike);

*March 19: Devil’s Den Preserve, 33 Pent Road in Weston (Linda Dunn, 203-207-1765); and

*March 26: hike and leader TBD (again, contact Sally Cox).