Start the New Year with a First Day Hike at an Alabama State Park

Alabama State Parks will again offer First Day Hikes on January 1, giving everyone the chance to explore Alabama's breathtaking natural landscapes with guided hikes at more than a dozen state parks - all part of a nationwide celebration encouraging Americans to start the new year outdoors.

A few key experiences on this year's First Day Hikes schedule include hikes to see waterfalls at Chewacla State Park in Auburn, an adventure hike to the DeSoto Falls basin at DeSoto State Park, a sunrise hike to King's Chair at Oak Mountain State Park and a sunset hike at Cheaha State Park.

"The First Day Hikes are the perfect way to start the new year," said Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship. "Our State Parks are home to hundreds of miles of the very best trails found anywhere in America, and First Day Hikes are a chance to start the new year off right. For anyone who's never been on a First Day Hike at an Alabama State Park, consider this your invitation. We want to see you on the trails this year."

As part of the National First Day Hike Program, which includes events in all 50 states, Alabama's hikes offer a meaningful way to welcome the new year. From peaceful forest trails to sweeping vistas, each hike showcases the beauty and diversity of Alabama's great outdoors.

The First Day Hikes also celebrate The Year of Alabama Trails, a statewide initiative led by the Alabama Tourism Department that celebrates the state's network of trails and invites adventurers of all ages to explore Alabama's most scenic landscapes.

Volunteers and park personnel lead the First Day Hikes inside Alabama State Parks. Hikers of all ages and skill levels are invited to ring in the new year by immersing themselves in Alabama's stunning natural beauty in a low-stress, family-friendly environment.

A complete list of First Day Hikes at Alabama State Parks can be found online at alapark.com/first-day-hikes-2026, and hikers can reserve their spot by making an online reservation.

Winter weather could impact outdoor plans. Registering in advance ensures you'll receive real-time updates and important notifications about your selected hike.

To make the most of your experience, park officials recommend bringing plenty of water or a sports drink, snacks or meals as needed, and hiking poles if desired. Dress for the season and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or hiking boots to stay comfortable on the trail.

First Day Hikes are free with daily Alabama State Park admission, where applicable, to make it a family-friendly activity to begin the new year.

Lake Guntersville State Park, Cheaha State Park, Chewacla State Park and DeSoto State Park are offering two First Day Hikes each, and online reservations are available for all First Day Hikes.

For hikers seeking overnight accommodations before or after participating in a First Day Hike, online reservations for lodge rooms, chalets, cabins and campgrounds can be made online at Alapark.com through the "Plan Your Alabama State Parks Adventure Online" portal. Joe Wheeler State Park is also hosting a New Year's Eve Party on Dec. 31, complete with food and live music, and Lake Guntersville State Park also offers a New Year's Eve package.

"There's no better way to start the new year than by lacing up your hiking boots and getting your family into nature," Alabama State Parks Director Matthew Capps said. "It's the perfect way to start 2026 on the right foot."

About Alabama's State Parks System
The Alabama State Parks is a division of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and maintains state parks encompassing more than 50,000 acres of land and water in Alabama. The parks range from Gulf Coast beaches to Appalachian Mountains and provide opportunities and facilities from basic day-use activities to resort convention lodging, restaurants and golfing areas. These parks rely on visitor fees and the support of other partners like local communities to fund the majority of their operations. Learn more at alapark.com.

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