CHEYENNE — Jan. 1, 2026, marks the 15th consecutive year that Wyoming State Parks is offering guided hikes at locations across the state for First Day Hikes.

First Day Hikes is a national initiative launched in 2012 and led by America’s State Parks. First Day Hikes are an opportunity for people to start their year off right, immersed in the outdoors. All First Day Hike offerings are open to the public, including seasoned patrons and first-time visitors. 

“I hope everyone’s New Year's resolutions for 2026 are to spend more time in the outdoors,” stated Frances Schaetz, outreach coordinator for the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation. “Participating in one of our statewide offerings for this initiative is a sure way to start the year and your resolution off on the right footing.”

First Day Hikes are offered in all 50 states on New Year's Day. Here in Wyoming, we are offering 19 unique hikes at State Parks and Historic Sites across the state. All hikes are free and open to the public; all day-use fees are waived on Jan. 1 for this initiative.

Participants will have the chance to win a 2026 Annual Day Use Certificate at each participating location and to enter a statewide grand prize drawing. Details for the drawings will be available at each site.

Details about regional hiking locations, difficulty, length and terrain are as follows:

Boysen State Park: starting at 10 a.m.

Meet at the Park Headquarters (120 Boysen Drive, Shoshoni, WY) for a 1.5-mile hike on moderate terrain. Refer all questions to 307-876-2796.

Buffalo Bill State Park: starting at 9 a.m.

Meet at the Park Headquarters (4192 North Fork Highway) for a 1.5-mile hike on easy terrain. Refer all questions to 307-587-9227.

Hot Springs State Park: starting at 10 a.m.

Meet at the T-Hill Trailhead for a 2-3 mile hike on moderate terrain. Refer all questions to 307-864-2176.

Medicine Lodge State Archaeological Site: starting at 11 a.m.

Meet at the Red Barn (4800 County Road 52, Hyattville, WY) for a 1-mile hike on easy terrain. Refer all questions to 307-469-2234.

Participants are encouraged to “know before you go” and to prepare for winter weather conditions, including dressing appropriately. Hot drinks and refreshments will be provided at most locations; however, participants are also encouraged to bring their own water and snacks.

This statewide initiative is brought to you by the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, Wyoming State Parks, and the Wyoming State Trails Program, all part of the Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources (SPCR). Learn more about our programs at wyospcr.wyo.gov. 

To learn more about First Day Hike events in your area, find individual sites on Facebook and/or visit bit.ly/m/FirstDayHikesWY.