The nation’s 50 state park systems are participating in First Day Hikes to kick off the new year.
Arkansas has a strong participation in this annual tradition focusing on healthy habits and lifelong memories.
This year for First Day Hikes guided events will not offered at any Arkansas State Park locations. However, Arkansas State Parks officials say knowing healthy habits are more important than ever, they are encouraging self-guided walks and hikes on the “First Weekend,” Friday, Saturday and Sunday. (Note: A few park locations are closed on the Friday holiday but will be open Saturday and Sunday. Visit the events calendar for specific parks to find out more about each park’s detailed plans.)
Hikers are encouraged to log their completed hikes and miles that take place in Arkansas State Parks on those days here. (You will see a form posted on Friday.) Park officials say they are excited to discover how many hikers cover how many miles in Arkansas’ state parks this weekend. A free Arkansas State Park hiking sticker will be sent to each person in groups logging into the state system.
Park officials still want to share First Day Hike experiences. Photos and/or videos can be uploaded here with the state park tool. Use #ARStateParks and #FirstDayHikes when sharing on social media too.
Please note, a number of state parks have experienced high volumes of hikers on weekends since the onset of COVID-19. Plan to recreate responsibly using the following reminders:
– When the parking lot is full, the park is full. Officials encourage considering planning hikes on less-visited trails or off-peak times of the day. Consider having a Plan B in place.
– Practice physical distancing. Keep 6-foot distance from hikers who don’t live in your immediate household.
– Have masks with you and be prepared to wear them, if you need to enter a park facility or can’t distance when passing another hiker on the trail.
– Stay on designated trails. Shortcuts cause damage and are unsafe.
– Practice Leave No Trace principles.
In Missouri, the annual event kicked off Wednesday and continues through Sunday. Officials say start a new tradition as you get some healthy exercise and enjoy the great outdoors.
In response to COVID-19 and to encourage social distancing and keep you safe, this year’s First Day Hikes are slightly different than in years past. Like Arkansas, only self-guided hikes at a state parks or historic sites are on the agenda. See our trails map for self-guided hiking opportunities at a park near you.
Share your participation in the challenge by capturing your adventure with a selfie or photo at the trailhead and posting your photos or videos on social media using #MOFirstDayHikes. Once you have completed your hike, come back to this page and enter into a daily drawing for a chance to win a $25 Missouri State Parks gift card.
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