First Day Hikes at Virginia State Parks
Start the New Year with a visit to one of our 43 Virginia State Parks on January 1. Taking a hike to inspire those New Year resolutions centered on getting or keeping fit is the perfect family-friendly activity. First Day Hikes is an initiative of America's State Parks, and hikes are offered in state parks across the country. We have many hikes and opportunities to choose from, or you can visit a park of your choosing and create your own special First Day Hike. It's the perfect time to start your Trail Quest!
Visitors will receive a commemorative sticker while supplies last.
Please be safe on your adventure and enjoy free parking*!
Park Trail Maps
Download park maps to help you navigate the trails.
Parking
* While nearly all our parks will be free, there are two exceptions. Natural Bridge State Park has a per person admission fee for access to the bridge that still applies. The $5 parking fee for trail access outside of the Natural Bridge is waived. Southwest Virginia Museum is closed Jan. 1 although a hike is still planned.
Hikes
Dec. 31, 2024 11:00 p.m. - Jan. 1, 2025 1:00 a.m.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Forgo the fireworks and crowded festivities and accompany a ranger on this guided hike through the quiet woods with the moon and stars lighting the way.
Dec. 31, 2024 11:00 p.m. - Jan. 1, 2025 1:00 a.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Forgo the fireworks and crowded festivities and accompany a ranger on this guided hike through the quiet woods with the moon and stars lighting the way.
Jan. 1, 2025. 12:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
James River State Park
Start the year off on the right foot, and what better place to do it then James River State Park.
Jan. 1, 2025. 6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
While Americans traditionally ring in the New Year at midnight on New Year's Eve, other cultures welcome it with the first sunrise of New Year's Day. Join rangers for this unique experience, witnessing the sky transition from dark to light as a new day and a new year dawns. While on top of the Piedmont Overlook, we will have ample time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.
Jan. 1, 2025. 6:45 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Greet the sun along Beaver Lake trail to start the new year off right.
Jan. 1, 2025. 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Widewater State Park
Come join our Ranger on a sunrise hike through the Holly Marsh Trail! With sunrise at 7:30am over the Potomac River, the hike will begin at 7:00am sharp. Registration is required and you can register here.
Jan. 1, 2025. 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Immerse yourself in the serene wooded landscape just after sunrise on New Year's Day, where the soft light filters through the trees and the sounds of nature come alive.
Jan. 1, 2025. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
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.
Jan. 1, 2025. 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
While jumping into the new year, join some guided hikes or take in the beauty of nature on your own.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Powhatan State Park
Start the new year with a photo scavenger hunt at Powhatan State Park.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Occoneechee State Park
Join us at Occoneechee State Park for a ranger-led First Day Hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Get your heart pumping in the New Year, on this ranger-led hike along Purchase Ridge.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
New River Trail State Park
Breathe in the New Year.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Machicomoco State Park
Download and print the interpretive trail guide to discover the hidden meanings behind the elements of the interpretive area as you guide yourself through the park. We strive to make our programming and special event opportunities accessible and inclusive to all.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Start off the New Year with an invigorating winter hike in one of Virginia's most unique state parks.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Explore the hidden hamlet of Wash Woods and see the various coastal habitats of False Cape.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Tundra Swans are known for their striking white plumage and long, graceful necks, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Machicomoco State Park
Step into the new year by joining Machicomoco's rangers on a hike through history at our interpretive area.
Jan. 1, 2025. 9:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Sweet Run State Park
Sweet Run’s 11 miles of hiking trails will be open for you to enjoy on your own or with us on one of our two naturalist-led hikes.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Twin Lakes State Park
This place, this land, is as old as time itself.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Leesylvania State Park
Ring in the New Year with a guided hike led by Leesylvania State Park Rangers. Guided Discovery Hike 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Lee's Woods Trail Follow a Ranger on this guided hike to learn about the history and wildlife that make Leesylvania State Park unique.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
York River State Park
Join us for our kick off to 2025 with one of two great hikes. Take a two mile journey to our living shoreline with a grand view of the York River (the hike to the hill overlooking the shoreline is meant to be ability-inclusive and will have an all-terrain wheelchair available for reservation). Or go on a four mile adventure to the Pamunkey Trail and gaze at the river from a secluded viewing platform. Both hikes will begin at 10:00 am from the amphitheater. .
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Hungry Mother State Park
Since hiking is a healthy activity and a great way to connect with nature, doing it more often is a perfect New Year's resolution.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Staunton River State Park
Ring in the New Year by joining us on a ranger-led hike on the River Bank Trail. Is your New Year's resolution to get in better shape, spend more time with friends and family, or to be in nature more? This is the perfect opportunity to jump start those initiatives. The hike will be about two miles with a difficulty level of easy to moderate. We will have multiple opportunities to observe the Staunton River, Dan River, and the largest lake in Virginia: John H.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Grab your hiking boots and step into the rich history and vibrant landscapes of Sky Meadows State Park, once known as the Mount Bleak Farm.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Lake Anna State Park
Join the Ranger on Railroad Ford Trail for a leisurely 1.5 mile hike to start the year on the right foot! The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation, but some areas have many roots.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Powhatan State Park
Start the New Year off on a good foot with a ranger-led hike through winter woods, along banks of the James River, and by frosty golden meadows.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Natural Bridge State Park
Start 2025 by joining park rangers for our annual First Day Hike. This year we will be admiring the Blue Ridge Mountains and beautiful panoramic views from Skyline Trail, which is a 1.6-mile, easy to moderate hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Douthat State Park
Whether you're a seasoned birding expert or a curious newbie, this hike is a great way to explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot some feathered friends along the way.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
First Landing State Park
2025 is going to be a walk in the park!
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
New River Trail State Park
Celebrate the New Year by going back in time to the historic village of Foster Falls.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Seven Bends State Park
You are welcome to hike on your own or join us for one of our four guided hikes throughout the day.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Belle Isle State Park
Welcome 2025!!
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Chippokes State Park
Bring the family and celebrate this New Year by adventuring out into the woods and on the Trail with a ranger. All tiny participants will be given helpful hands-on bug finding tools for investigating nature signs. Let's try to use all of our senses to see, smell, touch, track and observe.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Our Little Tyke Hike, designed for families with children ages 6 and under (but suitable for all ages), is perfect for letting your little one(s) discover the park and the natural world in their own special way and at their own pace.
Jan. 1, 2025. 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Make a first-day keepsake! Join us at the River Bend Discovery Center to make your first craft of the new year.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
There is no better way to celebrate the new year than with a hike!
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Inhale a fresh new year breath while enjoying a ranger-led walk or one on your own.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Wilderness Road State Park
As our modern-day fades, journey through the history of southwest Virginia on your first day hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
Start your new year with constructive and invigorating action by joining us for a First Day Hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Chippokes State Park
Start the new year of 2025 outdoors with a Virginia Master Naturalist and Chippokes Collaboration for First Day Hikes. The Virginia Master Naturalist Historic Southside Chapter will be hosting a guided hike and workshop experience for all to attend and enjoy. Spend time exploring and observing with Master Naturalists in the field.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Walk through history by touring historic Mount Bleak House.
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
What can we see, hear, smell, and possibly touch?
Jan. 1, 2025. 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Machicomoco State Park
Turn a new leaf this year by joining Machicomoco's rangers on a woodland hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
New River Trail State Park
Celebrate the New Year by exploring the historic town of Fries.
Jan. 1, 2025. 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Caledon State Park
Celebrate the new year with a retirement party!
Jan. 1, 2025. 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
This ranger-led hike, designed for friends, families, and well-behaved pets on leashes, will bring you on all or portions of Co-op, Hawkins, and Forest Exploration Trails.
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Southwest Virginia Museum
Participants who are interested in the First Day Hike will meet rangers at the front gate of the museum and take a walk through time as they begin their hike on the grounds of the museum.
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Staunton River Battlefield State Park
Come join a park ranger on a guided walk to the historic bridge and earthworks here at Staunton River Battlefield State Park.
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
Do you have a bad case of "cabin fever"?
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Grayson Highlands State Park
This hike will take participants into the high country for great views and to learn about the unique boreal world of Grayson Highlands State Park.
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Douthat State Park
What better way to start the New Year than to learn about trees?
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Sky Meadows State Park
Kick off the New Year with a refreshing, family-friendly hike that everyone can enjoy!
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
High Bridge Trail State Park
Start your new year with constructive and invigorating action by joining us for a First Day Hike.
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Clinch River State Park
Start 2025 with a Ranger led hike on the Sugar Hill Loop at Clinch River State Park!
Jan. 1, 2025. 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
False Cape State Park
Start off the New Year with an invigorating winter hike in one of Virginia's most unique state parks.
Jan. 1, 2025. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Lake Anna State Park
Join the Ranger on Railroad Ford Trail for a leisurely 1.5 mile hike to start the year on the right foot! The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation, but some areas have many roots.
Jan. 1, 2025. 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Raymond R. "Andy" Guest, Jr. Shenandoah River State Park
Ring in the new year with a stroll along the river! Join us for a nice stroll along our River Trail.
Jan. 1, 2025. 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Mason Neck State Park
Start the New Year off right by embarking on a delightful one mile hike filled with adventure and exploration along the paved multi-use High Point Trail.
Jan. 1, 2025. 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
Learn how to incorporate technology into your next hike and get to know some of the park's native flora and fauna along Big Poplar trail. Before you begin, visit the following websites and download your preferred app(s): Seek by iNaturalist Merlin Bird ID PictureThis-Plant ID app Avenza Park Map Fifth Star Labs-Constellations iNaturalist PocketMacros Call 804-796-4474 or email Rebecca.Whalen@dcr.virginia.gov for more information.
Jan. 1, 2025. 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Hungry Mother State Park
Explore helpful ways to relax and de-stress yourself in nature while learning about the history and culture of using nature as a means of therapy. Join certified Forest Therapy volunteer, Tina Hayes, on a relaxing hike made to calm the mind.
Jan. 1, 2025. 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Natural Tunnel State Park
Celebrate the New Year by hiking to Lovers' Leap to hear about the tale of the star-crossed lovers.
Jan. 1, 2025. 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Douthat State Park
Start your New Year off right by taking a leisurely walk in nature while learning all about the history of Douthat State Park and the CCC.
Jan. 1, 2025. 3:45 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Pocahontas State Park
End your First Day on a hike to see one of the "crown jewels" within the park.
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