On January 1st, 1992, Massachusetts started offering guided hikes at state parks on New Year's Day. By 2023, 884 parks across the country had joined — hosting 1,175 hikes, welcoming 60,048 participants, and logging 117,104 miles hiked. All on New Year's Day.
First Day Hikes is one of the best outdoor programs in America — and one of the most welcoming. There's something for every age, ability, and experience level: sunrise hikes up mountains, lantern-lit midnight walks, polar plunges, accessible waterfall boardwalks, and programs designed specifically for people who have never set foot on a trail.
Dia Hitt from South Carolina State Parks and Rob Barrett from Tennessee State Parks join The Parks Podcast to explain how it works and how to find one near you.
In this episode: — How First Day Hikes started in Massachusetts in 1992 and became a national tradition — What you can expect — the full spectrum from beginner walks to strenuous hikes — Polar plunges, skiing, lantern hikes, 5Ks, living history programs, and accessibility options — Why this is the perfect entry point for people who've never visited a state park before — How to find First Day Hikes in your state — and what to bring — Safety tips, layering advice, trail plan cards, and why you should always tell someone where you're going — The difference between state parks and national parks — and why both matter
Find your hike: — stateparks.org/specialprograms/firstdayhikes — Each state's individual park website
