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(Idaho State Parks Press Release, December 30, 2025)
Boise, Idaho – January 1st marks the first day of the year of the United States’ semiquincentennial and the annual First Day Hikes event. The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and America’s State Parks invite you to join us in celebrating by taking part in one of the more then 1,000 events taking place at state parks nationwide
First day hikes are open to all visitors, whether you are a frequent park visitor or looking to become one. Events are scheduled throughout state park systems with offerings of various trail lengths, difficulty levels, and times of day. In Idaho, you can celebrate by finding a park hosting a first day hike near you or plan a cabin, camping, or yurt retreat at a state park to extend your first day hike experience.
“State Parks across the country protect and provide access to the landscapes, stories and places that create the fabric of our country” says America’s State Parks President Paul McCormack. “As our country starts to celebrate its 250th birthday in 2026, we invite you to start your year on a First Day Hike enjoying and celebrating our incredible public lands.”
First Day Hikes started as an idea in 1992 at Massachusetts’ Blue Hills Reservation State Park. The hike became a beloved tradition that has spread across the country. Since 2012, the annual event has taken place across park systems nationwide, including Idaho’s state parks.
Idaho Parks and Recreation will be offering first day hikes at the listed state parks on January 1, 2026. “As we welcome the new year there is no better place to make memories then on the trail, we hope people across Idaho will take advantage of these first day hikes and start the new year with a breath of fresh air” shared Director Susan Buxton.
Farragut State Park – Athol
- Guided 2-mile hike to the Buttonhook Viewpoint Overlook
- Meet at Visitor Center at 10 a.m.
- A Dutch Oven program will follow the hike with warm food to finish the morning. Folks who don’t want to hike can hang with the cooking team at the fire ring
Hells Gate State Park – Lewiston
- Self-guided hiking on park trails
- 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Lucky Peak State Park – Boise
- Ranger-led, guided nature walks pertaining to wildlife, plants, and more
- Meet at the Sandy Point park office at the base of Lucky Peak Dam
- Hike 1 – 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
- Hike 2 – 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
- Hike 3 – 12:00 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
- Hike 4 – 1:00 p.m.to 1:45 p.m.
- Hot chocolate and cider will be available for $1 (cash only) during the festivities
Eagle Island State Park – Eagle
- Self-guided hiking on park trails
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After your hike stop by Visitor Center (open 10 AM – 2 PM) before or after your self-led hike for a complimentary hot chocolate, park maps, and Junior Ranger info with Ranger George. Hike at your own pace and enjoy the New Year outdoors!
Harriman State Park – Island Park
- Guided 1 mile snowshoe trek along the John Muir Trail
- Meet at the Visitor Center lobby at Harriman State Park at 11 a.m.
- Snowshoes will be available to rent in Visitors Center
- Hot Cocoa and activities in the Boys House throughout the day
