The way you choose to celebrate New Year’s Day can say a lot about the year to come, your priorities, your goals, and the first steps you take toward a fresh start. January 1st is our collective opportunity to reflect on the previous year and look forward to new possibilities. What better way to celebrate this than stepping into nature?
America’s State Parks are hosting safe and healthy First Day Hikes on January 1st. State parks in all 50 states are offering free hiking experiences including virtual, self-guided, and group events. This is a fantastic opportunity to plan a fun New Year’s Day activity with your loved ones that combines exercise with education. From Oregon to Florida and everywhere in between, there are hiking events happening in your backyard. Below are examples of First Day Hikes across the country.
Tip: If you want to transform your First Day Hike into an overnight excursion, you can search for the state park where you’ll be participating in the hike to make a reservation.
Free First Day Hike Events
1. Kolomoki Mounds State Historic Park, Georgia
Meet at the Temple Mound parking lot as we prepare to hike to the top of the temple mound to bring in the new year! Please arrive a few minutes early and bring a flashlight and a bottle of water. S’mores will be provided at the top as we count down to 2024.
Turn your hike into a camping trip. The park has RV campsites.
More Georgia State Park First Day Hikes
2. Codorus State Park, Pennsylvania
Enjoy the beauty of the Wildasin Cover as we take a 1.5 mile hike along the LaHo Trail. The trail may be muddy or snow covered – please dress appropraitely.
There are three cottages, one yurt, and RV sites available for your New Year’s weekend.
See More Pennsylvania State Parks First Day Hikes
3. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, Kentucky
Start 2024 off on the right (or left) foot with a self-guided First Day Hike around Big Bone Lick! Download a map or pick one up from the Gift Shop. This self-guided First Day Hike will take you from the Museum to the diorama pit where you can view replica Ice Age Mega Mammals. The trail will continue along the Big Bone Creek Trail and pass by active salt springs and Big Bone Creek.
Find a Kentucky State Park event
4. Letchworth State Park, New York
Letchworth has several free guided and self-guided hikes to kick off the year on the right foot! Take one of the many trails to breathtaking views of the gorge and Genesee River making wonderful photo opportunities for the family.
View more New York State Parks and DEC First Day Hikes.
5. Martin Dies Jr. State Park, Texas
Begin the new year with a meditative walk along one of the seven trails on our Martin Dies Jr. State Park trails map. Once you’ve completed your hike, share the good news at Headquarters and pick up your First Day Hike sticker!
Plan to extend your peaceful adventure in nature by reserving a campsite or cabin.
View All Texas State Park First Day Hikes
Didn’t see a hike in your area? Check out all of the First Day Hikes to find one near you!
The First Day Hikes website linked above offers a helpful color-coded U.S. map organized by state so you can find a hiking event in your community. Events will be added throughout the month of December so check back periodically for the latest information. Make it an annual tradition, and don’t forget to share your adventures using the hashtag #FirstDayHikes on social media.
Search for a hike near you and learn more about First Day Hikes at stateparks.org.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.