Colorado Parks and Wildlife is pleased to welcome in the new year by once again participating in First Day Hikes. Events are scheduled in state parks across Colorado on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative, including many self-guided options.
Coloradans can find a nearby hike by visiting the Colorado Parks and Wildlife First Day Hikes web page. First Day Hikes was created to offer everyone an opportunity to begin the new year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors at a state park close to home.
The programs are free but a vehicle day pass or state parks annual pass is required to enter the park. Some hikes do require advance registration.
“Each year, we’ve had a growing number of our parks offering First Day Hike events as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into state parks,” said CPW Director Bob Broscheid. “First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and celebrate the New Year in our amazing state with a walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks.”
Getting outside and unplugging from daily technology creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources in kids and adults alike.
Visitors to Colorado State Parks can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter and experience spectacular views and vistas. Enjoy kicking off the new year in the great outdoors!
- Hikes are free but park visitors must possess a valid parks pass.
- Participating parks may require a reservation prior to the hike, check the park’s webpage for details.
- Hikes will vary in skill level and length depending on location and weather conditions.
- Bring snacks, water, extra clothing, and hiking shoes with good traction. If trails are icy or snowy consider bringing trekking poles, snowshoes, or shoe spikes. Some hikes may have an initial requirement of these items, so make sure to check the event to know what you need!
FIRST DAY HIKES IN THE DENVER METRO AREA
Castlewood Canyon
2989 South State Highway 83, Franktown
- Registration required: Call (303) 688-5242 or email castlewood.canyon@state.co.us
- The event is free but a valid Parks Pass is required to enter the park.
- See Castlewood Canyon's Facebook page for information about different hikes
- All Ages welcome
Cherry Creek State Park
4201 South Parker Rd, Aurora
- Registration required. Sign up now, as spots are limited!
- The event is free but a valid Parks Pass is required to enter the park.
- Call the Visitor Center for questions: 303-766-6562
- All Ages welcome
Golden Gate Canyon
92 Crawford Gulch Road, Golden
- No registration required
- The event is free but a valid Parks Pass is required to enter the park.
- Call the Visitor Center for questions: 303-582-3707
- All Ages welcome
Roxborough State Park
4751 E. Roxborough Dr, Littleton
- Registration required. Sign up now, as spots are limited!
- The event is free but a valid Parks Pass is required to enter the park.
- Call the Visitor Center for questions: 303-973-3959
- All Ages welcome
For additional information, and to check out all of the other awesome Colorado First Hike events, visit the First Hike website.
Whether planning to participate in a First Day Hike, reserving a spring campsite, or scheduling hunter education courses, you can start your outdoor adventures by visiting the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
