Guided First Day Hikes led by rangers and volunteers are set at 31 Oregon State Parks for New Year’s Day— Monday, Jan. 1. Hikes are free and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.
America’s State Parks will sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage the community to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.
“I’m excited that we can offer 34 guided hikes in 31 state parks this year,” said Lisa Sumption, director of OPRD. “When more parks offer hikes, Oregonians have more options to hike near their homes or explore a new park and trail. Plus, this year we’re including more trail accessibility information in our online hike descriptions and are offering reasonable accommodations so visitors of all abilities can join us.”
Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration.
Hikers are reminded to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.
First Day Hikes will also have a hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes via Twitter and Instagram. Hikers will also be able to tag “Oregon State Parks” in their posts on Facebook.
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