Tennessee State Parks are set to welcome the New Year with their annual First Day Hikes on January 1st. As part of the parks’ year-long Signature Hikes series, these events will take place in most of the 59 state parks across Tennessee. The First Day Hikes are designed to cater to all ages and abilities, offering options from easy walks to more challenging excursions. This initiative aligns with common New Year’s resolutions to become more active and explore the outdoors, as the parks offer over 1,000 miles of trails.
Details regarding each First Day Hike, organized by park, are available on the Tennessee State Parks website. Some highlighted hikes include a one-mile walk at Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park, featuring historical insights and scenic views of the Valley of Three Forks on the Wolf River, and a more demanding three-mile hike on the Greeter Trail to Big Creek Overlook at Savage Gulf State Park.
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Other notable hikes include exploring the history, indigenous flora and fauna, and unique geography at T.O. Fuller State Park, a three-mile trek of moderate difficulty focusing on wildlife and plant life at Seven Islands State Birding Park, a hike along the Moonshiner’s Run Trail at Roan Mountain State Park, and a dynamic backcountry hike at Standing Stone State Park.
Participants are advised to wear closed-toed shoes and layer their clothing for comfort. Bringing water and snacks is also recommended. Additionally, visitors might consider extending their visit with overnight stays at parks offering lodges, campsites, and cabins. While the First Day Hikes are a special event, Tennessee State Parks are open all year round, providing ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The Signature Hikes series also includes Spring Hikes, National Trails Day Hikes in June, and After-Thanksgiving Hikes.
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