Arkansas State Parks is inviting Arkansans to welcome the new year outdoors with First Day Hikes on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. The annual tradition will also serve as the official kickoff to America 250 in Arkansas, marking the beginning of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
First Day Hikes Return Across Arkansas
First Day Hikes is a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks that encourages people to start the new year outside on local trails. The program promotes healthy habits, lifelong memories and year-round outdoor recreation, all while highlighting the value of public lands.
In 2026, the event takes on added significance as it coincides with the start of America 250, a multi-year observance honoring 250 years of shared history, landscapes and community connections.
“Visiting an Arkansas state park is a great way to get outside, enjoy nature and welcome the new year with family and friends,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “With America 250 beginning in 2026, First Day Hikes are a fitting way to start the year by celebrating our shared history and the public lands that connect us, while exploring the beautiful trails that show why Arkansas is called The Natural State.”
Guided and Self-Guided Hikes Available
Visitors can participate in First Day Hikes in two ways. Ranger-led hikes will be offered at select parks on Jan. 1, providing an opportunity to explore trails alongside park staff and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
For those who prefer flexibility, self-guided hikes are available during First Weekend, which runs from Dec. 27 through Jan. 4. Arkansas State Parks offers hikes of varying lengths, difficulty levels and landscapes, making it easy for people of all ages and abilities to take part.
How to Earn a First Day Hikes Sticker
Participants can receive a free Arkansas State Parks First Day Hikes sticker in one of two ways. Those attending a guided hike on Jan. 1 can receive a sticker directly at the park. Participants completing a self-guided hike can log their miles online at ArkansasStateParks.com/FirstDayHikes to receive their sticker.
If weather conditions make hiking on Jan. 1 difficult, participants can still log miles throughout the remainder of First Weekend.
Connecting People to State Parks
“First Day Hikes are a simple but powerful way to connect people to Arkansas’ state parks,” said Kelly Farrell, chief of interpretation and program services for the Division of Arkansas State Parks. “Whether it’s a short walk or a longer hike, every participant can find a personally meaningful way to celebrate healthy living, outdoor recreation and the special places our parks protect.”
A Nationwide Tradition With Deep Roots
First Day Hikes began in 1992 at Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Massachusetts and has since grown into a tradition embraced by all 50 state park systems. As the country begins recognizing its 250th anniversary in 2026, Arkansas State Parks will continue participating in the program and inviting visitors to experience the natural, cultural and recreational value of Arkansas’ public lands.
A complete list of guided First Day Hikes, along with planning tips, accessibility information and details on sharing photos and videos, is available at ArkansasStateParks.com/FirstDayHikes. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using #ARStateParks and #FirstDayHikes.
All photos courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
