By SDCN Editor
Sacramento, CA–California State Parks invites all outdoor enthusiasts to kick off the New Year by embracing the great outdoors and enjoying fresh air.
On Jan. 1, state parks will host its First Day Hikes, offering over 90 guided hikes at 70 of California’s most iconic and breathtaking parks. Whether you’re seeking scenic mountain views, coastal trails, or desert landscapes, there’s a hike for everyone to kick-start 2025 with nature, health, and a sense of adventure.
First Day Hikes is a national-led effort that encourages individuals and families to experience, with a seasoned guide, the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors and inspire them to take advantage of these treasures all year long.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time explorer, the First Day Hikes offer something for everyone as they start the new year.
The interactive First Day Hikes lets you easily search for hikes by park name, region, or by clicking directly on the map. Participants can check the website for any additional hikes or cancellations.
Featured Hikes on Jan. 1:
Angel Island State Park: Join State Park interpreters for a 4-mile moderately paced “walk ‘n’ talk” guided hike. Staff will pause along the way to share cultural and natural history on the largest natural island in San Francisco Bay. Expect moderate elevation gain, with some paved and unpaved surfaces, and stairs.
Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve: Experienced guides will meet participants near the visitor center for an inspiring and rejuvenating walk below towering coast redwoods. The Pioneer Trail is 1.5 miles round trip, ADA accessible, and mostly flat and leveled.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park: Walk among the biggest individual trees on earth, the giant sequoias, with an expert docent. If there is enough snow, participants will use free snowshoes in the park.
Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area: California’s state parks offer more than just hikes. Join staff for a first-day ride and explore scenic areas of the park. Learn about the animals that live in the area, rider safety, and the topography and geography of the region. Riding difficulty will be based on the participant’s skill level.
Indio Hills Palms Property: Discover naturally occurring California Fan Palm groves in this otherworldly ecosystem. Enjoy a peaceful desert escape that is surprisingly close to the city of Indio. There will be plenty of time for discussion and questions on this casual hike.
Malibu Creek State Park: Participants can join the Junior Ranger Nature Walk with a 2-mile round-trip guided walk along Malibu Creek to the visitor center and explore how plants, animals, and humans (now and historically) are interconnected and dependent on each other. The walk is offered in English and Spanish.
Point Mugu State Park: Participants can enjoy the crisp winter air as they traverse switchbacks, pass native plants, and perhaps spot wildlife along this westernmost starting point of the Backbone Trail during a 5.4-mile hike.
Salt Point State Park: The 2.5-hour hike on an easy-moderate loop trail features otherworldly landscapes of tafoni geology, bishop pine forests, oceanside terraces, and seascapes of pounding surf, deep water, and distant vistas.
Most parks require a parking fee for the hike. However, if participants have checked out the California State Library Parks Pass or have qualified for the Golden Bear Pass, they can enter for free at participating parks. Additionally, parents of fourth graders are invited to download the California State Park Adventure Pass that allows free entrance to visit 54 participating park units like Millerton Lake State Recreation Area or Samuel P. Taylor State Park.
As with any outing, all participants need to recreate responsibly.
Here are helpful tips to stay safe during First Day Hikes and all year long:
Know Before You Go: Before leaving home, check the status of the park you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a backup plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.
Play It Safe: Take precautions when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. For example, dress in layers, bring plenty of snacks and water and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
Leave No Trace: Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
For more safety tips, visit parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
For those who can’t make it to a guided hike, there are 280 state park units to visit to start 2025 with family and friends. Find a park near you at parks.ca.gov/Find-a-Park.
