If you're looking for a great way to ring in the New Year, your favorite Virginia State Park can help. Hiking is a fun way for families to enjoy being outdoors together.
Visit one of the 43 Virginia State Parks and participate in a self-guided or ranger-guided 2025 First Day Hike.
Jan. 1 is a fee-free day at all of the Virginia State Parks; however, Natural Bridge State Park has a per person admission fee for access to the bridge itself that still applies.
Whether you enjoy a hike with your family or participate in a group hike, getting out in nature is a great way to start 2025 off right!
Close to Home First Day Hikes
Click on the links below for more information about each hike.
Holliday Lake State Park, 2759 State Park Road, Appomattox - No guided hike planned, but feel free to explore the park on your own.
Natural Bridge State Park, 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge - 10 AM - 11:30 AM from Skyline Trailhead Parking Lot
High Bridge Trail State Park (Camp Paradise parking lot), 1466 Camp Paradise Road, Rice - 11 AM - 2 PM from Camp Paradise parking lot (11 AM Dog Hike; 1 PM High Bridge Hike)
11 AM - Fido's First Day Hike
1 PM - High Bridge Hike
James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone - 12 PM - 2 PM from Visitor Center - Choose from a Wetlands Hike or a History Hike
Smith Mountain Lake State Park, 1235 State Park Road, Huddleston - Five Oaks Trail begins at 1 PM from Visitor Center, followed by hot cocoa and treats at Discovery Cove
There are also lots of ideas for self-guided hikes and activity sheets on the Virginia State Parks website. You'll find all of the Virginia State Parks First Day Hikes information HERE.
**While nearly all our parks will be free, Natural Bridge State Parks has a per person admission fee for access to the bridge that still applies. The $5 parking fee for trail access outside of the Natural Bridge is waived.**
Make a New Year's resolution to enjoy more family time outdoors, then start 2025 on the right foot while making memories on a Virginia State Park First Day Hike.
While you're making resolution, resolve to Find Your Family Fun® in 2025 with Lynchburg Macaroni Kid! It's FREE to subscribe to our weekly newsletter, so click HERE and join the fun!
