What are First Day Hikes?

First Day Hikes are guided hikes organized by state parks on January 1st, encouraging people to start the New Year with outdoor activities.

How can I participate in a First Day Hike?

Check the specific state park's website or contact them directly for details on registration, meeting locations, and any requirements for the hike.

Are these hikes suitable for all ages?

Many hikes are family-friendly, but it's important to review the difficulty level and any age recommendations provided by the park.

Do I need to register in advance?

Some parks require advance registration due to limited space. It's advisable to check the park's website or contact them for registration details.

What should I bring to the hike?

Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy footwear, and bring water and snacks. Some parks may provide refreshments after the hike.

December 19, 2025

Kick Off the New Year with Outdoor Fun: First Day Hikes in Indiana and Kentucky

Indiana and Kentucky, December 19, 2025

As the New Year arrives, Indiana and Kentucky invite residents and visitors to participate in the annual First Day Hikes. Scheduled for January 1, state parks will host guided hikes to promote healthy living and community engagement through nature-based activities. Attendees can enjoy a variety of hikes across both states, contributing to personal wellness and local park vitality. This initiative reflects a rich tradition aimed at fostering connectivity with the outdoors and each other.

Kick Off the New Year with Outdoor Fun: First Day Hikes in Indiana and Kentucky

Start 2026 on the Right Foot with Nature Adventures

As the New Year approaches, residents and visitors of Indiana and Kentucky have a unique opportunity to embrace the great outdoors with the annual First Day Hikes. Scheduled for January 1, 2026, state parks across both states will be hosting guided hikes designed to promote healthy lifestyles and encourage year-round recreation. This initiative not only underscores our connection to nature but also highlights the significance of community engagement and individual initiative as drivers for local events and activities.

The resilience of local organizers in coordinating these hikes is commendable. Such events exemplify how reduced bureaucracy can foster a greater sense of community while facilitating personal achievement through outdoor exploration. By participating in First Day Hikes, individuals contribute to their well-being as well as to the vitality of our local parks.

Indiana’s First Day Hikes

Several Indiana state parks will be offering an array of hikes on New Year’s Day:

– Lieber State Recreation Area: Join a 1.5-mile hike at 10 a.m., followed by refreshments at the Nature Center, providing a welcoming atmosphere to warm up after the hike.

– Lincoln State Park: At noon CT, explore a hike across the dam to the historic Civilian Conservation Corps camp, showcasing the contributions of the CCC to the park.

– McCormick’s Creek State Park: From 1 to 4 p.m., enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at Centennial Shelter, then take the Echo Canyon Trail at your own pace.

– Mississinewa Lake: Experience a 1-mile stroll through the woods at 10 a.m., where friendly dogs on leashes are welcome. Prior registration is suggested.

– Monroe Lake: Participants can join the First Day Trail Run/Walk offering distances of 1.3, 2.9, or 3.7 miles, with races starting at 3:30 p.m. Advance registration is advised.

– Mounds State Park: A guided hike to the Great Mound at 5:30 p.m. on a paved path, making it accessible to more hikers.

– O’Bannon Woods State Park: A short half-hour tour of Little Wyandotte Cave will take place at 10 a.m.

– Ouabache State Park: Hike around the bison enclosure at 10 a.m., featuring a stop at the feeding station for a closer look at these magnificent animals.

Kentucky’s First Day Hikes

Kentucky state parks will also be joining in on the First Day Hikes:

– Mahr Park Arboretum: A guided hike will start at 12 p.m. through the 40-acre forest, providing a scenic backdrop for a New Year’s stroll.

– John James Audubon State Park: There will be two guided hikes at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the Audubon Museum front lawn, offering a 1-mile route through hilly terrain.

– Sleeping Giant State Park: A New Year’s Day hike from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. will challenge participants with uneven terrain, requiring good physical condition and appropriate attire.

Background on First Day Hikes

The First Day Hikes program has its roots over 30 years ago in Massachusetts and has expanded nationally, promoting outdoor activities as a way to usher in the New Year. These hikes provide invaluable opportunities for individuals and families to connect with nature, enhance physical health, and appreciate the seasonal beauty of state parks.

For further details on specific hikes, including registration processes and any potential weather-related updates, it’s encouraged to visit the websites of the respective state parks or reach out directly.

Conclusion

First Day Hikes present a compelling chance for individuals to engage with their surroundings, boost their health, and support our local parks as we transition into 2026. Embracing the outdoors not only enriches personal lives but also strengthens community bonds. As we head into the New Year filled with potential, consider participating in these enriching activities to celebrate nature, promote wellness, and foster a spirit of togetherness in Louisville and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are First Day Hikes?: First Day Hikes are guided hikes organized by state parks on January 1st, encouraging people to start the New Year with outdoor activities.
How can I participate in a First Day Hike?: Check the specific state park’s website or contact them directly for details on registration, meeting locations, and any requirements for the hike.
Are these hikes suitable for all ages?: Many hikes are family-friendly, but it’s important to review the difficulty level and any age recommendations provided by the park.
Do I need to register in advance?: Some parks require advance registration due to limited space. It’s advisable to check the park’s website or contact them for registration details.
What should I bring to the hike?: Wear appropriate clothing for the weather, sturdy footwear, and bring water and snacks. Some parks may provide refreshments after the hike.

State Park	Location	Hike Details	Registration
Lieber State Recreation Area	Indiana	1.5-mile hike at 10 a.m., followed by refreshments at the Nature Center.	Check park website for registration details.
Lincoln State Park	Indiana	Hike across the dam to the CCC camp at noon CT, highlighting the CCC’s impact on the park.	Check park website for registration details.
McCormick’s Creek State Park	Indiana	Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies at Centennial Shelter, then hike the Echo Canyon Trail at your own pace from 1 to 4 p.m.	Check park website for registration details.
Mississinewa Lake	Indiana	1-mile stroll through the woods at 10 a.m., with friendly dogs on leashes welcome. Advance registration is requested.	Advance registration requested by calling 260-468-2127.
Monroe Lake	Indiana	Annual First Day Trail Run/Walk offers 1.3-, 2.9-, or 3.7-mile courses, races begin at 3:30 p.m.	Advance registration recommended.
Mounds State Park	Indiana	Guided hike to the Great Mound at 5:30 p.m., on a paved accessible path lasting approximately 45 minutes.	Check park website for registration details.
O’Bannon Woods State Park	Indiana	Half-hour tour of Little Wyandotte Cave at 10 a.m.	Check park website for registration details.
Ouabache State Park	Indiana	Hike around the bison enclosure at 10 a.m., on a mostly level gravel surface.	Check park website for registration details.
Mahr Park Arboretum	Kentucky	Guided hike through the 40-acre forest at 12 p.m.	Check park website for registration details.
John James Audubon State Park	Kentucky	Two guided hikes at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on the Audubon Museum front lawn.	Check park website for registration details.
Sleeping Giant State Park	Kentucky	New Year’s Day hike from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., involving uneven terrain and possible rock scrambling.	Check park website for registration details.