Guided First Day Hikes set for Jan. 1 at Oregon State Parks including La Pine, Prineville Reservoir and Smith Rock
(Update: Adding La Pine, Prineville Reservoir State Park hike info)
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Guided First Day Hikes led by rangers and volunteers are set for 31 Oregon State Parks on New Year’s Day — Monday, Jan. 1. Hikes are free and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.
America’s State Parks sponsors the First Day Hikes program nationwide to encourage everyone to start the year outside and connect with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has participated since 2012.
“I’m excited that we can offer 34 guided hikes in 31 state parks this year,” said Lisa Sumption, director of OPRD. “When more parks offer hikes, Oregonians have more options to hike near their homes or explore a new park and trail. Plus, this year we’re including more trail accessibility information in our online hike descriptions and are offering reasonable accommodations so visitors of all abilities can join us.”
Visit the Oregon First Day Hikes web page to see the list of parks hosting hikes. Additional hike information such as hike times, meet-up locations and trail terrain are available via the park links on the web page. A few hikes require registration.
The list includes La Pine, Prineville Reservoir and Smith Rock state parks
Remember to plan for winter weather, dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, bring water, and carry binoculars for viewing wildlife.
Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging “Oregon State Parks” on Facebook.
Information about the hike hosted at La Pine State Park:
- The 3-mile hike is on the Cougar Woods Loop Trail and offers views of the Deschutes River and possible wildlife. If there’s snow, we will identify wildlife prints. A wildlife special from Central Oregon’s wildlife rehabilitation center Think Wild.
- Registration is required.
- The hike starts at 10 a.m. and begins at the meeting hall in the South Loop Campground. Look for signs.
- The hike is on a dirt trail with minimal elevation gain. Possible ice and snow may limit accessibility on the day of the hike.
- Children’s strollers are not recommended because of the snow or ice. Dogs are welcome on six-foot leashes.
- Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- For more information, call (541) 316-9755.
Information about the hike hosted at Prineville Reservoir State Park is below:
- Join us on a 1.6-mile, loop hike on the Rocky Racoon Trail. If we have time, we’ll also offer a 1-mile roundtrip hike on the Brewer’s Choice Trail. Come out and see great views of Prineville and the hiking and mountain biking trails. A Spanish speaking ranger will be on site.
- The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet at the gate of the Lower 66 trail head, 1662 SW Park Drive.
- Both trails are compacted dirt and gravel. The Brewer’s Choice Trail has a slight elevation climb.
- Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- For more information, call 541-416-0645.
About America’s State Parks
America’s State Parks is an alliance of state park systems in all 50 states. The National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) promotes and advocates for the state park systems across America in providing conservation and management of natural and cultural resources, quality outdoor recreation experiences, and connecting children and families to nature and the outdoors. With more than 9,817 park areas covering over 20 million acres of land, and visitation of nearly 9 million people annually, state parks are an integral part of protecting natural and cultural resources while providing guests amazing access to the outdoors. Learn more at stateparks.org.
