2024-10-25-13-55-41-246243-vnt

First Day Hikes

Location of Pocahontas State Park in Virginia

Where

Pocahontas State Park, 10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832.
Multiple Locations

When

Jan. 1, 2025. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

We are looking forward to starting off 2024 on the right foot with our series of First Day Hikes:

December 31, 2024
New Year's Eve Night Hike (11 p.m. - 1 a.m.): Hike in the new year. Moderate to advanced 2.3-mile hike. Not suitable for kids 10 and under. Reservations required.

January 1, 2025
Sunrise Hike (6:45 a.m.): Start the new year off right by greeting the sun along the Beaver Lake Trail. Moderate trail around 2.5 miles in length. Meet at Visitor Center.

Facilities Open (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.): Explore the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and Visitor Center. Self-guided activities are available.

Little Tyke Hike (9:45 a.m.): Stroller-friendly, less than one mile in length and suited for children 6 and under. Meet at Playground by Pool Parking Lot.

Sensory Hike (11:15 a.m.): Use all your senses along Oak Hill Picnic Loop. Suitable for all ages and abilities. Up to one mile in length over paved, rooty terrain. Meet at Visitor Center

Trail-Mix Hike (12 p.m.): A mix of Forest Exploration and Co-Op Trails. Moderate 3.5-mile loop. Leashed pets welcome. Meet at Swift Creek Boat Launch.

Investigations Hike (2:45 p.m.): Use field guides and technology to learn more about the park. Moderate 0.7-mile loop, not suitable for strollers. Meet at Visitor Center.

Swift Creek Dam Hike (3:45 p.m.): End your day with a history hike. Approximate one mile loop, strollers and leashed pets are welcome. Meet at Swift Creek Banquet Hall.

Call 804-796-4474 or email Caoilinn.Turner@dcr.virginia.gov for more information and New Year's Eve Night Hike registration.

First Day Hikes are sponsored by the Friends of Pocahontas State Park.

photo of a couple hiking along a park trail

About First Day Hikes

Every year on Jan. 1, Virginia State Parks celebrates First Day Hikes. This nationwide initiative invites people to ring in the new year by connecting with nature and making lasting memories at a state park. Ranger-led and self-guided First Day Hikes are offered across the state, giving visitors of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore outdoors. January 1 is a Free Parking Day at all Virginia State Parks. (The admission fee at Natural Bridge still applies).

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 804-796-4255
Email Address: Pocahontas@dcr.virginia.gov