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NASHVILLE – Tennessee State Parks will kick off the new year with First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day, offering guided hikes at most of the state’s 59 parks as part of the year-long Signature Hikes series.

The hikes, led by park rangers, are free and open to all ages and abilities. They range from easy walks to more strenuous excursions and provide a great opportunity to start the year with a focus on health and activity. Tennessee State Parks feature over 1,000 miles of trails.

Details about each hike, listed by park, can be found on the Tennessee State Parks website.

Highlighted Hikes

Among the many First Day Hikes scheduled are:

• Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park: A one-mile trek featuring the park’s historical significance and views of the Valley of Three Forks on the Wolf River.
• Savage Gulf State Park: A sometimes strenuous three-mile hike on the Greeter Trail to the Big Creek Overlook.
• T.O. Fuller State Park: A hike highlighting the park’s history, indigenous plants and animals, and unique geography.
• Seven Islands State Birding Park: A three-mile journey of easy to moderate difficulty with insights into birds, wildlife, plants, and trees.
• Roan Mountain State Park: A hike along the Moonshiner’s Run Trail.
• Standing Stone State Park: An invigorating backcountry hike.

Preparation Tips

Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toed walking shoes and layered clothing. Bringing water and snacks is also recommended.

For those looking to extend their visit, many parks offer overnight accommodations, including lodges, campsites, and cabins. While First Day Hikes provide a special way to start the year, Tennessee State Parks are open 365 days a year for exploration and recreation.

About Signature Hikes

The Signature Hikes series includes seasonal hikes held throughout the year, such as Spring Hikes, National Trails Day Hikes in June, and After-Thanksgiving Hikes.

For more information and a full list of First Day Hikes, visit Tennessee State Parks online.