Kick off the New Year outdoors with a First Day Hike in one of America's State Parks in all 50 states

What better way to kick off the New Year than by getting a jump start burning off those extra holiday calories in the great outdoors? On New Year’s Day, America’s State Parks have all 50 states offering free, guided First Day Hike Programs. These hikes provide a means for individuals and families to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, exercising and connecting with nature.

Last year nearly 55,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 133,000 miles throughout the country on the guided hikes. Numerous others hiked state park trails throughout the day.

Norris Dam State Park

The guided First Day Hikes are led by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers.The distance and rigor vary from park to park, but all hikes aim to create a fun experience for the whole family. People are invited to savor the beauty of the state park’s natural resources with the comfort of an experienced guide so they may be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures throughout the year.

America’s State Parks have been entrusted to preserve a variety of magnificent places from California to Maine. Hikers can experience a plethora of outdoor recreation activities including mountain and hill climbing, walks along lakes and beaches, exploration of trails through great forests, wildlife expeditions, bird-watching and much more.

Fort Loudoun State Historic Area

No matter where you are in the United States, you can find your park here! You can click here to find a First Day Hike near you. There's a First Day Hike for everyone, from easy to difficult.

One Knoxville-area First Day Hike will be at Fort Loudoun State Historic Park. Get more information here. Hikers will meet at the Tellico Blockhouse at 1 pm. Or, try Norris Dam State Park's First Day Hike. You can ring in the New Year on Norris Lake by moonlight with the 12:01 am hike that starts at the Tea Room at the East end of the park. The hike will end with a huge fire in the Tea Room with refreshments. Get more information here. 

Grandfather Mountain Mile High Swinging Bridge

Grandfather Mountain State Park in North Carolina is hosting a moderate hike starting on Holloway Mountain Road. Get more information here.

America’s State Park programs are committed to promoting outdoor recreation in hopes to help address obesity, especially in children. Furthermore, exercise and outdoor activities rejuvenate the mind and body, promoting overall mental and physical health and wellness. Many believe that time spent in nature enhances creativity and lifts our moods!

Take advantage of the resources that America’s State Parks have to offer and get connected to our country’s shared resources by finding a First Day Hike near you. Let this mark the beginning of a healthy lifestyle for the whole family!