Thursday, January 1, 2026
Start your year off right with a First Day Hike!
Join a Minnesota state park naturalist for a guided hike through a park. You'll burn off some of those holiday calories, cure cabin fever, connect with friends, and enjoy the winter landscape and wildlife.
First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America's State Parks to get people outdoors, with over 400 hikes scheduled this year in all 50 states. 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.
Events calendar
Scroll table right to see more »| 01/01/26 | First Day Snowshoe Walk | Jay Cooke State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike | Minneopa State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike - Snowshoe to the Bog | Lake Bemidji State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike | Fort Snelling State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike | Tettegouche State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike - Miner's Trail | Lake Vermilion-Soudan Underground Mine State Park | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike | Whitewater State Park - Visitor Center | |
| 01/01/26 | First Day Hike - Snowshoe through the CCC Campground | Gooseberry Falls State Park |
All First Day Hikes are free, but you will need a vehicle permit to enter the park. ($7 per day or $35 for the year.)
More winter fun
Can't make it on New Year's Day? There are loads of other opportunities to play outside this season. Check out our winter activities guide for lots more ideas and events, or the events calendar. We'll see you out there!