America’s 250th Year Brings First Day Hikes Across the Country
Dec 11, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT:
Angelina Stancampiano, National Volunteer Coordinator for First Day Hikes, 307-677-2461, angelina.stancampiano@wyo.gov
Paul McCormack, NASPD President and CEO, paul@stateparks.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 17, 2025
January 1st will ring in America’s semiquincentennial and host the annual First Day Hikes. America’s State Parks invites you to join in on one or more of the 1,000 plus events taking place at our state parks.
While many places hold traditional hikes, depending on the weather and terrain you might find a first day snowshoe or a beach stroll. First Day Hikes are open to all visitors, whether you are a frequent park visitor or looking to become one. Events are scheduled throughout state park systems with offerings of various trail lengths, difficulty levels, and time of day. Find a hike near you or plan a cabin, camping, or yurt retreat at a state park to extend your First Day Hike experience.
“State Parks across the country protect and provide access to the landscapes, stories and places that create the fabric of our country” says America’s State Parks President Paul McCormack. “As our country starts to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, we invite you to start your year on a First Day Hike enjoying and celebrating our incredible public lands.”
Visit stateparks.org/special-programs/first-day-hikes to find a state park First Day Hike offering that suits you - whether you’re looking to start a new family tradition, find an accessible trail, or get a kick start on your New Year’s resolution.
First Day Hikes started as an idea in 1992 at Massachusetts’ Blue Hills Reservation State Park. The hike became a beloved tradition that has spread across the country. Since 2012, the annual event has taken place across park systems nationwide.
Start 2026 in nature at one of America’s State Parks!
About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 900 million people annually, state parks are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural
