JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Kansas City in December? Weston Bend State Park provides some perfect ways to escape, while also offering an array of fun, educational events.

Friday, Dec. 9: Healthy for the Holidays – Guided Mindfulness Walk
The holidays are often a stressful time of year. Take time for yourself, breathe in the fresh air and connect with nature. This guided hike will use the River Trail (a natural-surface trail) and the Weston Bluffs Trail (a gravel-surface trail); both trails are flat. Participants will walk approximately 1 mile and are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Meet in the parking lot at 10 a.m.

Thursday, Dec. 14: Winter Birding 101 at the Parkville Library
This lecture series is presented by the Mid-Continent Library System. Annie, our park specialist, will be talking about wonderful winter birds in this area. Learn how to identify some of the less-known birds, keep birds in your backyard and the winter migrants. Meet at 7 p.m. at the Parkville Library, located at 8815 Tom Watson Parkway in Parkville.

Friday, Dec. 23: Welcome Winter Birds – Guided Bird Walk
It’s official - winter is here. Don’t let that get you down, because so are the winter birds and they are always sure to provide enjoyment and the occasional surprise. Join the park team for a leisurely stroll, looking for and learning about winter birds. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Paved Trail parking lot. Paved Trail has an asphalt surface and participants should plan to walk about a mile. Wear comfortable shoes, dress for the weather and bring binoculars.

Saturday, Dec. 31: Go Getters Guided Hike
A new year is right around the corner, so get that first hike of the year in before it officially starts! This guided hike begins at 10:30 a.m. along the scenic West Ridge Trail. Hear about the park’s unique bluff feature and other interesting nature tidbits. This is a natural-surface trail with hills and uneven terrain. Participants should meet in the Overlook parking lot, wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

All programs are free and open to the public. Weston Bend State Park is located at 16600 Highway 45 North near Weston. For more information, call the park at 816-640-5443. Programs will be canceled in the event of rain, snow or ice.

For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.