Washington State Parks have a new tradition, First Day Hikes. Besides being a great way to get some exercise, the parks provide staff led a self-guided tours with some history of the park. As well as the history, you can get a pin, showing you participated. Go to the link and look for a park where you would like to go, there are more than 40!

Here is the scoop from the parks site:

“Ring in the New Year with Washington State Parks! First Day Hikes offer an experience for everyone to get outside and enjoy our beautiful state parks.

Participate in ranger and staff-led hikes, bike rides, snowshoe excursions and more offered at 40+ parks on New Year’s Day. When you are done, don’t forget to pick up your free, collectible Washington State Parks 2024 First Day Hikes pin!

All hikes are free and a Discover Pass is NOT needed to park on state managed lands on Jan. 1, our first Washington State Parks Free Day of 2024. However, you may need to register for some events with participation limits and/or purchase the appropriate Sno-Park permit. Please read hike descriptions carefully and check the park’s event descriptions to make sure you are registered and have what you need! Enjoy your New Year’s Day State Parks adventure!”

Credit to Cheryl Evans for the photos from last year’s hike at Saltwater State Park in Des Moines, WA.