First Day Hikes

America’s State Parks First Day Hikes.

These hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on January 1, 2012 at a state park. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

Since I am located in the southwestern part of Virginia, I take pride in the programs we have to offer in this area. Even though we are in the mountains of Virginia we are still participating in First Day Hike programs.

Grayson Highlands State Park, Mouth of Wilson, VA

Cabin Creek Trail will be the hike. Participants can receive information and self guided booklet at the park office on December 31st and January 1st from a park staff member. This hike can be strenuous with heavy snow fall.

Waterfalls on the Cabin Creek Trail

Hungry Mother State Park, Marion, VA

Stop at the Discovery Center at Hungry Mother State Park any time on January 1 to pick up a First Day CCC Hike brochure (in an envelope in the foyer). From there, follow the trail to learn more about the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corp who built Hungry Mother State Park. Lasting .5 miles, this trail is easy and great for hikers of all ages and abilities. Please wear weather-appropriate attire and bring water.

Natural Tunnel State Park, Duffield, VA

The Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail will take hikers through five different and distinct habitats. The trail offers the hiker beautiful mountain views and an opportunity to view wildlife and birds through two observation blinds. Interpretive signs are places along the trail that state the type of habitats that is present. Guests are allowed to park in front of barn.

Natural Tunnel enjoys the beauty of winter.

New River Trail State Park, Foster Falls, VA

This is a guided hike. We will be hiking from Foster Falls, Virginia to the Shot Tower where we will take a tour of the old tower. Round trip the hike is 2.4 miles along the New River Trail; it's a flat small stone trail with very little incline.

Historical State Park, Big Stone Gap, VA

The Southwest Virginia Museum will offer an informational pamphlet for a self-guided walking and driving tour of the town of Big Stone Gap, VA. Participants may pick up information at the Museum's front gate the day of the hike or in advance at the Museum's front desk. Participants will begin their walking tour at the Southwest Virginia Museum.

State Park, Ewing, VA

This is an easy, self-guided 1 mile hike on the Indian Ridge Trail. A pamphlet will be available at the contact station with directions and information about the hike. It is a nature hike and a perfect way to start the New Year.

Wilderness Road trail in winter

Each of the Virginia State Parks will be offering hikes that are unique to the location.

Some of the hikes will be guided and some will be self-guided. Please remember that the weather is always a factor for Virginia’s January. Not only are clothing and shoes something to be considered but bringing enough water to stay hydrated.

Click here to see what the park closest to you will be doing for the First Day Hike.

We want to begin our new year with you!

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America’s State Parks First Day Hikes.

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