Tag Archives: First Day Hikes

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First Day Hike

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Friends and I spent the morning of January 1st taking at First Day Hike at Claytor Lake State Park.

The First Day Hikes program originated in Massachusetts in 1992, and since 2012, First Day Hikes have been held in all 50 states, including in all 44 of Virginia’s State Parks. In January 2018, it became an international movement with many countries participating.

The temperatures were in the low 30s (Fahrenheit), the wind was gusty, and the sun came from behind the clouds at intervals. It was, in my opinion, a great day to be outside, and that afterall is the goal. Whether it’s a hike, snowshoe, or even a swim, First Day Hikes are an opportunity for folks to start the new year on the right foot in the outdoors. 

Get out there! You won’t regret it!

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Our Version of a First Day Hike

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First Day Hikes is an initiative of America’s State Parks, and hikes are offered, with waived entrance fees in state parks across the country. To be honest, I thought that this was just a Virginia thing, but all over the US folks are encouraged to “take a hike to inspire those New Year resolutions that are centered on getting or keeping fit”. Virginia has 41 State Parks, yet Greg and I have only visited 11. We have work to do!

We didn’t make it out to our local Claytor Lake State Park on New Years Day, but we did take our version of a First Day Hike. It was more an “Urban Walk” on Main Street and across Memorial Bridge over The New River but even still, it was great to be outside.

While I mourn for the Earth when it is 70°F in January, we definitely enjoyed the breeze as we walked over Memorial Bridge, enjoying the views.

Walking along Main Street offered views of historic architecture as well, while the clouds added much to the scenery.

Perhaps next year, we will do an official First Day Hike, but our Urban Walk was a great start to 2022.

Cheers!