Step into the New Year the healthy way on one of these free First Day Hikes on Jan. 1, 2025 at California State Parks. Californians can take part in more than 80 guided hikes taking place across more than 60 California State Parks on New Year’s Day. While all events are completely free, you may need to register for some hikes.
There are so many gorgeous state parks to visit across the state. And even better, the best state park in the entire U.S. is located in California!
First Day Hikes at state parks across the country is “a national-led effort that encourages individuals and families to experience, with a seasoned guide, the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors and in doing so may inspire them to take advantage of these treasures throughout the year and an individual’s lifetime.”
Prepare Properly
Don’t forget to dress properly with supportive walking shoes and comfortable layered clothing that doesn’t restrict your movements. And be sure to pack lots of snacks and water for an enjoyable, safe journey into nature!
Plus, here are helpful tips to stay safe during hikes all year long:
- Know Before You Go: Before leaving home, check the status of the park you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a backup plan in case your destination is crowded.
- Play It Safe: Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. For example, make sure to dress in layers, bring plenty of snacks and water, and wear appropriate hiking shoes.
- Leave No Trace: Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.
Share Your Adventure Online
Hikers are encouraged to use the following hashtags when posting photos of their nature excursions.
- #HikeInto2025
- #FirstDayHike2025
- #HikeWithCAStateParks
- #CAStateParks
First Day Hikes around L.A.
Check the California State Parks website here for a full list of First Day Hikes around California for start times and hike descriptions. This year there’s a more interactive map for visitors to search for hikes by park name, county and region. Visitors can also type in their own address, and it will show nearby hikes taking place. Here are just a few of the First Day Hike options around Los Angeles:
- Pío Pico SHP
- Start Time: 1/3/2025 9:00 AM
- Length of Hike: 0.2 miles, 6 hours
- Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
- Start Time: 1/2/2025 9:30 AM
- Length of Hike: 0.6 miles, 1 hours
- Will Rogers SHP
- Start Time: 1/4/2025 11:00 AM
- Length of Hike: 1.0 miles, 2 hours
- Los Encinos SHP
- Start Time: 1/1/2025 10:00 AM
- Length of Hike: 0.2 miles, 7 hours
- Malibu Creek SP
- Start Time: 1/1/2025 9:00 AM
- Length of Hike: 4.0 miles, 3 hours
- Chino Hills SP
- Start Time: 1/1/2025 8:30 AM
- Length of Hike: 5.3 miles, 3 hours
📍 Location: Various California State Parks
🎟️ Fee: Free!
More Free Entry Days at California National Parks
If you can’t make it to the First Day Hikes tomorrow, no worries! There are 6 other free entry days in 2025 at California National Parks. You can get more information for planning your outdoor adventures here.