TENNESSEE STATE PARKS TO HOST FIRST DAY HIKES TO START YEAR
NASHVILLE – Tennessee State Parks will hold First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day, with most of the 59 state parks hosting the events as part of the parks’ year-long Signature Hikes series.
The free guided hikes, led by park rangers, are available for all ages and abilities. The First Day Hikes vary from easy walks to strenuous excursions, and they can be a great way to meet New Year’s resolutions to be more active. Tennessee State Parks have more than 1,000 miles of trails.
Details about the First Day Hikes, listed by park, can be found at the Tennessee State Parks website.
Among the many hikes are:
- A one-mile trek at Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park that features the park’s historical significance and views of the Valley of Three Forks on the Wolf River
- A sometimes strenuous three-mile hike on the Greeter Trail to the Big Creek Overlook at Savage Gulf State Park
- A hike featuring the park’s history, indigenous plants and animals, and the unique geography of the area at T.O. Fuller State Park
- A three-mile journey of easy to moderate difficulty, with information about birds, wildlife, plants, and trees at the Seven Islands State Birding Park
- A hike along the Moonshiner’s Run Trail at Roan Mountain State Park
- And an invigorating hike through the backcountry of Standing Stone State Park.
Hikers are encouraged to wear closed-toed walking shoes and layered clothing. It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks.
Hikers should also consider making overnight stays at parks with lodges, campsites, and cabins. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the First Day Hikes, visitors are reminded that the parks are open 365 days a year.
The state parks’ Signature Hikes are held each year and include First Day Hikes, Spring Hikes, National Trails Day Hikes in June, and After-Thanksgiving Hikes.
