First Saturday Hike

Start the new year with adventure and fresh air! Join us for the First Saturday Hike of 2026 on January 3, 2026, at 8 a.m. CDT at the beautiful Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge, Columbia Mine Management Area.

We’ll explore the Massey Trail, a scenic 1.5-mile loop that offers stunning vantage points of Massey Lake. This easy, family-friendly hike is the perfect way to connect with nature, enjoy peaceful views, and kick off the year with community and wellness.

Lace up your boots, bring a friend, your pup and come discover the beauty of the refuge with us.

To get to the Massey Lake parking lot, head East from Oakland City on SR 64 for two miles to CR 100W. Turn left (North) onto CR 100W and continue 3/4 mile until the road “T’s”. Turn left (West) on W CR 475 S, and travel 1/10 mile. Look for the brown Columbia Mine Preserve sign across from the Patoka Grove Church, turn right (North) onto CR 125W and follow the road two miles back to the large parking area at the center of the Columbia Mine Preserve. Dress appropriately for the weather, and all dogs must be on a leash 6 feet or shorter.