Hike with Santa
2024-12-07 10:00 - 12:00 UTC
Meet at the trailhead off Priddy Drive just before the Stoneville Municipal Park entrance for a FUN hike with Santa & elves … who knows, the Grinch might show up too! No registation necessary, but if you’d like to stay up to date on this and future trail events with Resilient Trails Network, register at https://forms.gle/bgmmuwo8dZTe29dE6

Celebrate WNC with a hike on the Wilderness Gateway State Trail
2024-12-14 10:00 - 12:00
Eager to get back to Western North Carolina to explore, but not sure where to go and what trails are open?
On Dec. 14 Valdese Parks and Recreation gives you the chance to both hike and to help a local community affected by Hurricane Helene. At 10 a.m., hike the first – and so far, only – open segment of the Wilderness Gateway State Trail. From the trailhead in Valdese Lakeside Park we will hike along Lake Rhodhiss, then upstream along McGalliard Creek over the 151-foot McGalliard Creek suspension bridge and on to the spectacular McGalliard Falls. From there, we’ll return the way we came, for a total hike of 4 miles.
This trail is hiker-friendly, with a short series of stone steps at the falls.
Then stick around to make a day of your visit by dining in one of Valdese’s downtown restaurants (with everything from Mexican and pizza to burgers made with locally grown beef), doing some holiday shopping in one of downtown’s eclectic shops, or visiting a local museum.

Celebrate WNC with a hike on the Wilderness Gateway State Trail (afternoon)
2024-12-14 14:00 - 16:00
Eager to get back to Western North Carolina to explore, but not sure where to go and what trails are open?
On Dec. 14 Valdese Parks and Recreation gives you the chance to both hike and to help a local community affected by Hurricane Helene. At 2 p.m., hike the first – and so far, only – open segment of the Wilderness Gateway State Trail. From the trailhead in McGalliard Falls Park, we will hike past the falls, then downstream along McGalliard Creek and over the 151-foot McGalliard Creek suspension bridge. We’ll continue downstream to Lake Rhodhiss and to in Valdese Lakeside Park for a short break before heading back to McGalliard Faslls Park. Total distance: 4 miles.
This trail is hiker-friendly, with a short series of stone steps at the falls.
Plan to make a day of your visit by dining in one of Valdese’s downtown restaurants (with everything from Mexican and pizza to burgers made with locally grown beef), doing some holiday shopping in one of downtown’s eclectic shops, or visiting a local museum.

First Day Hike at Lumber River State Park
2024-12-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Lumber River State Park – Chalk Banks Access, 26040 Raeford Road, NC, 28396, US
First Day Hikes at Lumber River State Park – Princess Ann Access and Chalk Banks Access
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10 – 11am
2819 Princess Ann Rd. Orrum, NC 28369

Natural Side of Fort Macon Hike
2024-12-19 10:00 - 11:00 | Fort Macon State Park, 2303 E. Fort Macon Rd., NC, 28512, US
Join the Fort Macon Ranger for a leisurely hike exploring the natural side of this North Carolina historic site. You’ll spend time both on the trail and at the beach.
Thu, Dec 19 2024, 10 – 11am
Fort Macon State Park – Visitor Center
2303 E. Fort Macon RoadAtlantic BeachNC 28512

Winter Wonderland Trail Workday
2024-12-21 09:00 - 14:00
Volunteer with Friends of Panthertown for the first day of winter! We’ll enjoy some hot chocolate at the trailhead after adding chicken wire to the backcountry boardwalks on the Wilderness Falls Trail.
RSVP: Events – Friends of Panthertown

Winter Solstice Celebration
2024-12-21 13:00 - 14:30 | Paddy’s Creek Visitor Center, 2229 Lake James State Park Road, Nebo, NC, 28761, United States
Come celebrate the returning of the light with us! Drop by the Visitor Center any time between 1pm-2:30pm to learn why the Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and make a solstice suncatcher.
Sat, Dec 21 2024, 1 – 2:30pm
Paddy’s Creek Visitor Center
2229 Lake James State Park RoadNeboNC 28761

First Day Hike Scavenger Hunt at Dismal Swamp State Park
2025-01-01 08:00 - 16:30 | Dismal Swamp State Park, 2294 US 17 N, South Mills, North Carolina, 27976, United States
For First Day Hike 2025, Dismal Swamp is offering a self-guided scavenger hunt!
Stop by the visitor center to pick up the scavenger hunt sheet, follow the directions, and explore. After you complete the sheet, you can receive a sticker.
The visitor center is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
First Day Hikes logo from the National Association of State Park Directors.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 8am – 4:30pm
Dismal Swamp State Park 2294 US 17 N South Mills, NC 27976

First Day Hike at Hammocks Beach State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:00 | Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 Hammocks Beach Road, NC, 28584, US
Maritime Eco-Hike
Join a park ranger on the first day of 2025 for an adventure-packed maritime eco-hike following our nature trails through the woods! Deer, eagles, a scampering wild turkey– you never know what you’re going to see! A great way to spend the first day of the new year! Meet at the trailhead near the Visitor Center.
Hike: 1.5 miles, easy

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 10am
Hammocks Beach State Park 1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro NC 28584

First Day Hike at Stone Mountain State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:00 | stone mountain state park Backpack Parking trailhead, N36.39460, W81.06890, US
Join a Ranger for your first hike of 2025 at the Lower Trail Head at 9:00 AM. The hike will start on the Wolf Rock Trail and connect into the Cedar Rock Trail for a total of 2.5 miles. These trails are rated as moderate. Please come dressed for the weather and bring plenty of water.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 10am
Lower Trail Head – Stone Mountain State Park3042 Frank ParkwayRoaring GapNC 28668

First Day Hike at Raven Rock State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:00 | Raven Rock State Park, 3009 Raven Rock Road, Lillington, NC, 27546, United States
Join a Park Ranger on this one-hour hike to discover some of the natural wonders of this piedmont landmark to celebrate First Day Hikes. Hike is 0.5 miles long and is easy.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 10am
Raven Rock State Park 3009 Raven Rock Road Lillington, NC 27546

First Day Hike: Boyd Tract
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:00 | Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, NC, 28388, United States
Start the year off right by getting outside for a First Day Hike! For this hike at the Boyd Tract, we will hike an easy 1 mile through old growth longleaf pine forest. You’ll meet the oldest known living longleaf pine tree in the world, as well as the former state champion longleaf!
Come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable shoes!
Meet at the parking lot of Weymouth Center, at 555 E. Connecticut Ave.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 10am

First Day Hike at Pilot Mountain State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:00 | Pilot Mountain State Park – Bean Shoals Access, 622 Hauser Road, Pinnacle, NC, 27043, United States
Come out to Pilot Mountain’s Bean Shoals access on January 1, 2025 for a guided first day hike on the Horne Creek trail! This trail is located at the Bean Shoals access, the park’s property on the north side of the Yadkin River.
In addition to the 3-mile hike, participants will get to see the new improvements that have been made to the area.
Participants can meet park staff at the Hauser Road parking lot, located at 622 Hauser Road, Pinnacle, NC 27043 at 9:00am.
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing!

First Day Hikes at Fort Macon State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 10:30 | Fort Macon State Park, 2303 E. Fort Macon Rd., NC, 28512, US
First Day Hikes – 9 a.m. (one short and one long)
Start off the new year with a hike in your favorite state park. Fort Macon State Park will be offering four ranger-led hikes this year, two at 9 a.m. and two at 2 p.m.
The shorter hike at 9 a.m. will offer a short nature and bird hike on the Yarrow’s Loop Trail and the inlet beach, covering 0.75 mile.
The longer hike at 9 a.m. will also be a nature and bird hike, but on the 3.2-mile Elliot Coues Trail.
Wear sturdy shoes and bring a water bottle and bug spray.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 10:30am
Fort Macon State Park 2303 E. Fort Macon Road Atlantic Beach, NC 28512

First Day Hike: To Hanging Rock!
2025-01-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Hanging Rock State Park, 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, NC, 27016, US
Bring your thermos, a warm snack, and a journal as we celebrate the New Year by getting outside and experiencing nature with this guided hike up to Hanging Rock. At the top there will be a journaling experience for you be intentional about what goals you have for the coming year. Dress warm with appropriate footing and accessories as cooler temps are expected. Hiking sticks/poles are always a good suggestion. Registration is required. To register and for more information, please email andra.dalton@ncparks.gov

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 11am
Hanging Rock Trail 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road Westfield, NC 27016

First Day Hike at Mayo River State Park
2025-01-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Mayo River State Park – Mayo Mountain Access, 500 Old Mayo Park Road, North Carolina, 27027, US
Join us for a guided 1.8-mile hike along the fox trail. A ranger will navigate, while sharing inspired insight as we start the new year off with a stroll through the woods. We will meet at the Picnic Shelter located at the Mayo Mountain Access. We will have a fire, ready for you to warm your hands before and after the hike. We will provide hot chocolate, while supplies last. Let us know that you are coming by emailing us at mayo.river@ncparks.gov. We look forward to seeing you!

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 11am
Mayo River State Park – Mayo Mountain Access 500 Old Mayo Park Rd. Mayodan, NC 27027

Jordan Lake First Day Hike
2025-01-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Ebenezer Church Recreation Area, 2582 Beaver Creek Rd, Apex, NC, 27523, United States
Come join a park Ranger on a scavenger hunt at Ebenezer Church Recreation Area to kick off the New Year! The hike consists of locating various park animal silhouettes throughout the trail. Learn about animals of Jordan Lake and their special adaptations.

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 9 – 11am
Ebenezer Church Recreation Area 2582 Beaver Creek Rd Apex, NC 27523

First Day Hike Scavenger Hunt
2025-01-01 09:30 - 12:00 | Boone Fork Parking Area, Linville, NC, 28604, United States
Meet a ranger at the Boone Fork Parking Area on the Blue Ridge Parkway (mile marker 299.9) to grab a scavenger hunt to complete on Nuwati Trail for your First Day Hike! The hike is approximately 2.4 miles round trip, so make sure to dress warmly, wear appropriate footwear, and bring snacks and water for your self-guided scavenger hunt hike. A ranger will be at the Boone Fork Parking Area from 9:30am-12:00pm to hand you a scavenger hunt.
Boone Fork Parking Area GPS: 36.120076, -81.781358 Linville, NC 28604

First Day Hike – Upper Bearwallow Falls
2025-01-01 10:00 - 10:30 | Gorges State Park – Grassy Ridge Access, 976 Grassy Ridge Road, NC, 28774, US
Join Park Staff for a 2025 First Day Hike to the Upper Bearwallow Falls Overlook.
Please be prepared for a moderate, 30 minute hike, with proper footwear and water. We will be meeting at the Upper Bearwallow Picnic Shelter.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10 – 10:30am
Gorges State Park – Grassy Ridge Access 976 Grassy Ridge Road Sapphire, NC 28774

First Day Dune Hike
2025-01-01 10:00 - 10:45 | Jockey’s Ridge State Park, 300 W Carolista Dr., NC, 27959, US
Kick the year off right by joining Ranger Austin for a fun and informative hike to the ridge. We will discuss all things Jockey’s Ridge. Let us embrace 2025 by setting the pace for a year filled with adventure and physical activity. All are welcome. Bring your family and friends.

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10 – 10:45am

First Day Hike at Lake Norman State Park
2025-01-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Lake Norman State Park, 759 State Park Drive, NC, 28166, US
What a better way to ring in the New Year than by taking a hike with a Ranger? Meet at the swim beach parking lot for a 1 to 1.5-mile hike. Participants will get a First Day Hike sticker following the hike! No registration needed. Bring water and dress for the weather. Closed-toed shoes are recommended.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10 – 11am
Lake Norman State Park- Swim Beach 1412 State Park Rd. Troutman, NC 28166

First Day Hike at Jones Lake State Park
2025-01-01 10:00 - 11:00 | Jones Lake State Park, 4177 NC 242, NC, 28337, US
Start 2025 with a guided hike around a Carolina bay lake. Learn about the flora and fauna of this unique environment while we hike an easy 1 mile.
Meet at the visitor center.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10 – 11am
Jones Lake State Park – Visitor Center 4117 NC Highway 242 N. Elizabethtown, NC 28337

First Day Hike: Animal Superpowers In Winter
2025-01-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Haw River State Park – Iron Ore Belt Access, 6068 N. Church Street, NC, 27455, US
Join us at the Iron Ore Belt Access of Haw River State Park for a leisurely walk with a North Carolina State Parks Education Specialist as part of the First Day Hike initiative. Learn all about animal winter adaptations on this route, approximately 2 miles in length along even, natural terrain. Please dress for the weather (in layers), wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring bottled water/snacks as needed.

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10am – 12pm
Haw River State Park – Iron Ore Belt Access 6068 N. Church St. Greensboro, NC 27455

First Day Hike at Morrow Mountain State Park
2025-01-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Morrow Mountain State Park, 49104 Morrow Mountain Rd, North Carolina, 28001, US
Come out to Morrow Mountain State Park on New Year’s Day to get your wellness goals started off on the right foot.
Join a park ranger for a guided hike on the 3.3-mile moderate to strenuous Sugarloaf Mountain trail. Sugarloaf’s 850-foot summit is a fitting destination with expansive views stretching across the Uwharrie Mountains, Lake Tillery, and beyond.
Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather including sturdy hiking shoes and bring water to drink. The trailhead is located at the Bridle trail parking area, which is the second driveway on the right after entering the state park gate.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10am – 12pm
Morrow Mountain State Park 49104 Morrow Mountain Road Albemarle, NC 28001

First Day Hike at Carolina Beach State Park
2025-01-01 10:00 - 12:00 | Carolina Beach State Park, 1010 State Park Road, North Carolina, 28428, US
Join a Park Ranger to hike the Sugarloaf Trail at the Marina for a two mile round trip hike to Sugarloaf Dune. Lace up your shoes, bring water and start your new year off right. Hike will begin at 10:00am. Start with the group and stay with the group or find your own path!

Wed, Jan 1 2025, 10am – 12pm
Carolina Beach State Park 1020 State Park Road Carolina Beach, NC 28428

First Day Hike A Dash More 2025
2025-01-01 10:00 - 12:00
Join us for a a first day hike on the Fuquay-Varina Park Depot Greenway. We will hike from the trailhead parking area on NC55 to South Lake and return, and pickup any trash we might come along. Bagels and Hot Chocolate while it lasts!

First Day Hike and Polar Plunge
2025-01-01 10:30 - 12:30
EVTA will host a First Day Hike from Elkin Recreation Center, 399 NC 268 W, Elkin, NC 28621 to Crater Park, 310 Standard Street, at 10:30 am for an inaugural “ Polar Plunge” in the Yadkin River taking place at 11:30 at Crater Park. Hikers are welcome to take the plunge or to cheer on the brave participants or non-hiking participants can meet at Crater Park at 11:15 for the safety talk from Elkin Rescue Squad before taking the plunge. Hot chocolate and coffee will await the brave participants and spectators! Hope to see you there.

First Day Hike (Salmon Creek State Natural Area)
2025-01-01 11:00 - 12:30 | Bertie Beach, 243 Bal Gra Road, Merry Hill, NC, 27957, United States
Join park ranger Katie Sanford for a leisurely, approximately 2-mile hike at Bertie Beach. This county-owned property adjoins Salmon Creek State Natural Area in Merry Hill, NC. Learn about local plants and wildlife, as well as some of the history of the area. Dress for the weather, and wear your walking shoes!
This hike is planned in partnership with Bertie County Parks and Recreation.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 11am – 12:30pm
Bertie Beach 243 Bal Gra Road Merry Hill, NC 27957

First Day Trek Together (Stroll & Roll)
2025-01-01 11:00 - 12:30
Burlington Recreation and Parks hosts Trek Together hikes – perfect for families with kids of all ages. These child-paced hikes encourage exploration and fun on the trail and no one gets left behind!
Our First Day Trek Together is a stroll & roll through Burlington City Park. Meet your guide and the group in front of the Carousel House. The trek will follow sidewalks, and paved and gravel paths around the park and are wheel-friendly (stroller, wagon, etc). Expect 1-1.5 hours on your feet and 1-2 miles of walking. After the walk, feel free to explore the inclusive playground on your own.
Preregistration is required at www.BurlingtonNC.gov/Outdoors#TT! Registered participants will get an email a day before Trek with additional information and reminders.

First Day Hike: Weymouth Tract
2025-01-01 13:00 - 14:00 | Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, NC, 28388, United States
Start the year off right by getting outside for a First Day Hike! For this hike at the Weymouth Tract, we will hike an easy 2 miles to see the different habitats within the longleaf pine forest.
Come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Meet at the visitor center.
Wed, Jan 1 2025, 1 – 2pm
Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve – Visitor Center1024 Fort Bragg RoadSouthern PinesNC 28387
