Embrace the outdoors: Welcome 2024 with a first day hike in America’s State Parks

Friday, December 29, 2023

Welcome the New Year with joy, fresh air, and breathtaking landscapes by engaging in a First Day Hike at one of America’s State Parks. These guided hikes occur annually from Hawaii to Maine, encouraging individuals and families to kick off the year on a positive note by immersing themselves in nature.

On January 1, 2024, over 1,000 hikes will take place in state parks across the country. The distance and intensity of the hikes may vary, but the common goal is to offer an enjoyable experience for families. Embrace the beauty of state parks, rich in natural, cultural, and historical wonders, inspiring you to cherish these local gems throughout the year.

Lewis Ledford, the executive director of the National Association of State Park Directors, expressed excitement about the ongoing success of the First Day Hikes program. It has evolved into a cherished tradition, providing individuals and families with a chance to embrace the outdoors and commit to health and well-being at the start of the year.

Participants from coast to coast will explore hundreds of state parks, engaging in activities tailored to their interests and abilities. Whether it’s a scavenger hunt at Bowman Bay in Oak Harbor, Washington, a sunrise hike at Pinnacle Mountain State Park in Little Rock, Arkansas, or a stroll through the tropical hammock of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Florida, there’s a First Day Hike for everyone.

Hikers can select guided hikes that match their comfort levels, such as mountain climbing, lakeside walks, forest trails, and wildlife expeditions. For those uninterested or unable to hike, various activities are available, including boating, fishing, horseback riding, or simply enjoying a tranquil moment at a park picnic table or bench.

The tradition of First Day Hikes began in 1992 at Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts and has since expanded to include all 50 states by 2012. As the annual event approaches significant milestones, including 1 million miles hiked and 500,000 participants in the program’s history, America’s State Parks aims to make 2024 a record-breaking year.

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