From KDWP
First Day Hikes is a national program sponsored by America’s State Parks. First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on New Year’s Day within 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. There are hundreds of scheduled First Day Hikes across the United States. For more information about the First Day Hike program and other hikes around the United States visit, http://stateparks.org.
Kansas State Parks are pleased to offer numerous First Day Hike events all across the state. Our staff recommend coming prepared for a First Day Hike. Suggested items to bring may include: Water, snacks, weather appropriate clothing (hat, gloves, heavy coat), hiking shoes, binoculars, a hiking stick, and a camera. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. A vehicle permit is required unless otherwise stated. Check below for a First Day Hike event near you!
Share your photos with us! #FirstDayHikes and #MyKSStatePark. Below is information on some of the area hikes.
Kanopolis State Park
Date: January 1, 2026
Time of Event: 10:00 A.M.
Trail: Split Boulder Trail
Meeting Location: State Park Office
Details: Trail is moderate in difficulty, 2 miles in length. Hikers may see deer, birds, eagle nests and unique rock structures. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Cancellation Information: Check the Park Facebook Page Kanopolis State Park
Contact: Kanopolis State Park Office 785-546-2565.
Little Jerusalem Badlands
Date: January 1, 2026
Time of Event: 9:00 A.M.
Trail: Little Jerusalem
Meeting Location: Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park Entrance
Details: The trail is Moderate to Difficult in difficulty, 4-5 Miles in length. We will explore inside the chalk formations, looking at fossils, and local flora and fauna.
Cancellation Information: Please call the Park office at 620-872-2061 or check the department website. Little Jerusalem Badlands / Locations / State Parks / KDWP - KDWP
Contact: Park Office 620-872-2061
Wilson State Park
Date: January 1, 2026
Time of Event: 1:00 P.M.
Trail: Cedar Trail in the Otoe Area
Meeting Location: The old beach parking lot near Cedar Trail.
Details: Trail is easy in difficulty, 1 mile in length. The hike will be one mile in length and is ADA accessible. Participants could see various types of wildlife throughout the hike. Storybook "One Leaf, Two Leaves, Count with Me" is on the trail
Cancellation Information: Please call the Park Office.
Contact: Wilson State Park Office 785-658-2465.