First Day Hikes on New Years Day start the year off right

Take a hike on New Years Day and kick off the New Year by being active with First Day Hikes in Central Ohio or across the US! Start the New Year outdoors with fresh air, scenic trails, and a renewed focus on health and wellness.

First Day Hikes are a popular New Years Day tradition across the United States. You’ll find these new year, new you hikes through Central Ohio, including select local metro parks and at some State Parks with ODNR.

But you don’t have to hike with a group! Grab your friends or family and hit the trails in your favorite place to hike!

New Years Eve Bird Hike at Blacklick Woods

January 1, 2026 @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Kick-off the new year with a 1.25-mile guided hike as we search the forest and feeders for winter birds. Details here. 

Blacklick Woods
6975 East Livingston Ave
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068 

Metro Parks Annual Winter Hike Series and Celebration

New Year’s Day Hike at Preservation Parks Shale Hollow Park 

Kick off the new year by joining Preservation Parks for the annual first hike of the year at Shale Hollow Park on January 1 at 10 am. Hike 1.2 miles, and then celebrate with hot refreshments in the Visitor Center. The trail has some elevation change.

New Year’s Day Hike at Shale Hollow Park

ODNR First Day Hikes

Plan a visit to one of Ohio state parks offering First Day hikes. All 13 locations featuring naturalist-led tours that reveal the unique natural and cultural stories behind Ohio’s landscapes.

Each First Day Hike is family-friendly, ensuring everyone from seasoned adventurers to first-time hikers can find a trail to suit their pace and preferences. Participants will also receive a special sticker commemorating the Winter Hike program, while supplies last.

Ohio’s First Day Hikes are part of the nationwide First Day Hikes in America’s State Parks program, which includes more than 1,000 hikes across all 50 states. This initiative, which began more than 30 years ago, has inspired millions to explore the outdoors every New Year’s Day.

See the hikes closer to Central Ohio, or the full list here. 

ODNR Winter Hike Series at Hueston Woods State Park
When: January 1, 2026, 11 a.m.
Location: 6301 Park Office Rd. College Corner, OH 45003
Details: Join the Naturalist for a 1.5-mile hike

ODNR Winter Hike Series at Caesar Creek State Park
When: January 1, 2026, 1 p.m.
Location: Meet at the Nature Center 4006 Pioneer Village Road Waynesville, Ohio 45068
Details: Join the naturalist for a guided three-mile moderate hike through Pioneer Village to Horseshoe Falls, across the Swinging Bridge and back. This is a general naturalist hike, all ages welcome. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. TTrails can be muddy.

ODNR Winter Hike Series at Salt Fork State Park
When: January 1, 2026, 1 p.m.
Location: Stonehouse Trail Parking Lot
Details: Meet at the Stonehouse Trail Parking lot (Not the Kennedy Stonehouse Museum) and hike into the new year on a scenic 1.8 mile hike to the historic Stonehouse. Hot chocolate and snacks provided at the Stonehouse. Weather dependent. 

ODNR Winter Hike Series at Indian Lake State Park
When: January 1, 2026, 1 p.m.
Location: Pew Island parking lot, 10160 Co Rd 286, Huntsville, Ohio 43324
Details: Join our naturalist at the Pew Island Trail for a short (.80 mile) walk around the island. Be sure to dress for the weather! Pets are welcome but must be leashed. Only extreme cold or heavy rain will cancel this event. Participants will also receive a Winter Hike series sticker (as supplies last). 

ODNR Winter Hike Series at Deer Creek State Park
When: January 1, 2026, 3 p.m.
Location: Deer Creek Nature Center
Details: Come hike the Hawkview Meadow Trail with the Naturalist. Hawkview Meadow trail is a ¾ mile loop that goes past Clarks Run creek. This trail has some hills, with wooded and meadow areas. Please wear appropriate footwear and gear for the weather, water and a snack recommended. Park at the campground lot. Meet the naturalist at the Nature Center. The hike will begin promptly at 3:00pm.

First Day Hikes in the US

Traveling or reading from elsewhere? Find a First Day Hike elsewhere in the US.