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. Limited First Day Hike T-Shirts will be available for participants. Shirts will be available at check-in on a first-come first-serve basis. 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!
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Some First Day Hikes of interest in Central Kansas:
Wilson State Park
Date: January 1, 2025
Time of Event: 1:00 P.M.
Trail: Cedar Trail
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.
Historic Lake Scott State Park
Date: January 1, 2025
Time of Event: 9:00 A.M.
Trail: Historic Lake Scott Multi-Use Trail
Meeting Location: State Park Office
Details: Hike will be from 2-6.5 miles long and moderate in difficulty.
Cancellation Information: Check the Park Facebook Page KDWP
Contact: Historic Lake Scott State Park Office 620-872-2061.
Kanopolis State Park
Date: January 1, 2025
Time of Event: 10:30 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.
Cancellation Information: Check the Park Facebook Page Kanopolis State Park
Contact: Kanopolis State Park Office 785-546-2565.
Green Trail ~ Pratt, KS
Date: January 1, 2025
Time of Event: 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Trail: Green Trail
Meeting Location: Maintenance Shop
Details: Trail is easy in difficulty, 1 mile in length. Hikers might see a variety of wildlife. Hot chocolate, apple cider and water will be provided.
Cancellation Information: Check the Agency Facebook Page Facebook.
Contact: KDWP Pratt Office 620 672 5911.
CLICK HERE for a full list of KDWP First Day Hikes