A dozen Alabama state parks are participating in a nationwide First Day Hikes initiative, encouraging outdoor recreation and a healthy start to the new year after the holiday season. These guided hikes, led by knowledgeable park staff and volunteers, are part of a nationwide event occurring in all 50 states.
Participating Alabama parks include Buck’s Pocket, Cheaha (offering both accessible and heritage hikes), Chewacla, DeSoto, Gulf, Joe Wheeler, Lakepoint, Meaher, Monte Sano, Oak Mountain, Rickwood Caverns, and Wind Creek State Parks. Registration details for each park can be found on the Alabama State Parks website (links provided in the original text are omitted here for brevity).
The website emphasizes the family-friendly nature of the hikes, stating that “Kids and adults all across America will be participating in First Day Hikes, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of a state park.” Hike times and details are available for each participating park, with options for online registration or walk-up participation on New Year’s Day. There is a $5 per car entry fee for each park.
While the difficulty and distance vary by location, all hikes aim to provide a fun and engaging experience. The initiative encourages participants to appreciate the natural beauty of Alabama’s state parks, hoping to inspire continued outdoor exploration throughout the year. A full list of participating parks and hike details is available on the Alabama State Parks website.