Kick Off America’s 250th Birthday with a Texas-Sized First Day Hike

Did you know that America will be celebrating 250 years in 2026? There are some great ways to celebrate our country and one of the best is to kick off the new year with a First Day Hike at a Texas State Park.

A New Year Tradition Outdoors, The First Day Hike at Texas State Parks

I think this is a wonderful idea! My husband and I go camping for the new year with friends and we've been doing this for a long time. We camp at Texas State Parks and we always go hiking on our trips.

Get our free mobile app

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative encouraging people of all ages and skill levels to get outside on January 1. Across Texas, state parks will offer ranger-guided and self-guided hikes, bike rides, paddling trips, polar plunges and more, giving Texans a chance to explore the state’s natural beauty while welcoming the new year.

Texas tops the nation in participation. Last year, in 2024, Texas State Parks hosted 178 First Day Hike events, drawing 9,484 participants who logged a combined 18,932 miles. The number of events, participants and miles all set new records for the fourth consecutive year, with Texas once again outpacing every other state.

READ MORE: East Texas Paddling: Toledo Bend Gets New Trails

Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks, said in a press release,

One of the many reasons I love Texas is the mild winter weather. There’s no better way to spend a beautiful January day than walking with friends and family at a state park. This year is especially meaningful as we also begin celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

Trails for Every Skill Level at Texas State Parks

Texas State Parks offer trails ranging from short, family-friendly strolls to more challenging trails for the more experienced hikers. Trail maps are available through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) website, the official Texas State Parks app and individual park webpages.

As parks may reach capacity, TPWD strongly encourages visitors to reserve day passes in advance online or through the TPWD Customer Service Center.

If you plan on visiting several parks in 2026, be sure to check out the Texas State Parks Pass. This pass waives daily entrance fees for a full year and includes additional discounts.

A complete list of First Day Hike events is available on the event page.