RICHMOND — The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) is encouraging Virginians to put their best foot forward and start the new year with an outdoor adventure at any of its Virginia State Park locations.
The nationwide First Day Hikes initiative, led by America’s State Park system, has become a tradition for many people to exercise, explore outdoors and connect with nature while enjoying parks’ unique beauty this season.
Parking is free at all Virginia State Park locations on Jan. 1, and visitors to each park will receive a celebratory First Day Hike sticker while supplies last, according to DCR.
Both York River State Park and Machicomoco State Park have activities planned.
New Year on the York takes place at York River State Park on Jan. 1 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., with two hikes available.
Take a two-mile journey to the living shoreline with a grand view of the York River — the hike to the hill overlooking the shoreline is meant to be ability-inclusive and will have an all-terrain wheelchair available for reservation, according to DCR — or go on a four-mile adventure to the Pamunkey Trail and gaze at the river from a secluded viewing platform.
Both hikes will begin at 10 a.m. from the amphitheater.
Hike Through History at Machicomoco State Park in Hayes takes place Jan. 1 from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.
Guests can step into the new year by joining Machicomoco’s rangers on a hike through history at its interpretive area and explore the park while exploring the history of Virginia’s Indigenous People. The adventure will be a little under a mile long on easy terrains composed of gravel and mowed grass.
Visitors are encouraged to stick around after the hike for a cup of hot cider, courtesy of the Friends of Machicomoco.
Whether you prefer to partake in a solo adventure or want to join in on the fun of ranger-led hikes and activities, DCR saays the parks have you covered with numerous ways to help elevate your experience during your visit.
