For many Coloradans, starting the year off right means starting on a trail.

That explains the New Year’s Day tradition called First Day Hikes — a national tradition tracked by America’s State Parks, the organization recognizing the first day of 2026 as particularly special.

Jan. 1 marks the start of America’s 250th birthday celebration. Colorado, meanwhile, will celebrate 150 years as a state.

A state park seems a fitting place for the kickoff.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife lists several parks that will host guided hikes in the morning. That includes several “close to home,” a mantra of the First Day Hikes tradition that aims, in CPW’s words, “to highlight state parks as ‘close to home’ places for connecting people to nature, promoting year-round recreation and fostering healthy outdoor lifestyles.”

Close to Denver, Golden Gate Canyon State Park has posted a 3-mile hike ending with hot chocolate. A greater reward might await at Barr Lake: The state park near Brighton mentions the chance to spot bald eagles in its event post. Meanwhile, Chatfield State Park has posted details for a 3-mile hike starting through the cottonwoods along the South Platte River.

Closer to Colorado Springs, to the west where Pikes Peak looms large, Mueller State Park has listed several hikes scheduled for the morning and afternoon. Some hikes are geared toward kids and families, while the forest bathing experience is listed for “those who like to go slow.” The reflective session will include tea. And any and all can warm up with chili in the visitor center.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds hikers to wear layers this time of year, when snow and ice might also require shoe spikes. Many of the hikes require online registration, along with a parks pass.

Find that registration information and more details at CPW’s First Day Hikes webpage: cpw.state.co.us/event/2026/01/first-day-hikes