Rangers and volunteers will lead free guided hikes at more than 55 state parks across the Pacific Northwest on Thursday to mark the first day of 2026.

In Oregon, there are 25 events, including a guided paddle trip at Brian Booth State Park, a horseback ride at Elijah Bristow State Park and snowshoeing at Emigrant Springs State Park.

“A lot of people find that connecting with nature is a great way to start off the new year and I couldn’t agree more,” said Oregon State Parks spokesman Mike Baden.

Rangers share stories of park histories, geology, wildlife and plants.

“Some hikes even end with hot chocolate around a fire, like the Cove Palisades or Cottonwood Canyon. It creates a real special environment.”

Silver Falls State Park has two hikes planned, despite recent storm damage there. One to learn about liken, the second to learn outdoor skills.

The Washington State Park Department has organized more than 30 events. There’s a hike through a coastal rainforest with stunning views of the Columbia River Bar at the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse. At Battle Ground Lake, the ranger will talk about the park’s history, flora and fauna. And there’s birdwatching with sweeping views at Bottle Beach State Park.

Some events feature short walks of a quarter of a mile, while others offer a 5-mile trek requiring registration. Details are available at the Oregon and Washington state parks websites.

The First Day Hikes program began in 1992 at the Blue Hills Reservation in Massachusetts, when a park supervisor wanted to encourage more winter activity.

The tradition expanded nationwide in 2012 through the National Association of State Park Directors.

“All 50 states now participate,” Baden said.

Participants are advised to dress warmly and be prepared for all kinds of weather. And while the hikes are free, parking charges still apply.

News Source : https://www.opb.org/article/2025/12/31/free-first-day-hikes-offered-at-55-state-parks-across-the-pacific-northwest/