New Year’s Eve gets all the attention with its glitter ball drops, champagne toasts and a countdown to a kiss. For those who can’t bear to greet 2026 at a crowded party at midnight, though, a First Day Hike offers a family-friendly and healthy alternative.
Every Jan. 1, across the nation, state parks celebrate with ranger-led and self-guided hikes or other special programming (and free parking). In the greater Fredericksburg region, Virginia State Parks are joined by the City of Fredericksburg and a natural area preserve for this year’s event.
The city’s department of parks, recreation and events has hosted First Day Hikes for several years. This year, visitors can explore the 20 miles of trails at Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area (6600 River Rd) from 9 a.m. till 3 p.m. There will also be staff-guided hikes throughout the day. Other goodies include free hot chocolate, a make-your-own trail mix bar and kids’ activities including a “trick your stick” station, where a child (or grown-up) can select a walking stick and personalize it with a variety of crafty decorations.
In Spotsylvania County, head to Lake Anna State Park for a midnight hike (11 p.m. Dec. 31 at the campground), a sunrise hike (6:30 a.m. at Ware Cove picnic area), a wheel-friendly hike (10 a.m. at beach/lawn area at visitor center) or a sunset hike (4 p.m. at beach/lawn area at visitor center). Strollers, mobility scooters and wheelchairs are welcome on the 1.5 mile ‘roll’ on the paved Campground Walkway Trail and through the campground. The trail slope ranges from 1-8 degrees (2-15% incline) uphill and downhill. Space is limited to 50 participants for the midnight and sunrise hikes (call the Park Office at 540-854-5503 to RSVP).
Lake Anna State Park at sunset
“First Day hikes benefit the community by bringing them together to connect with friends, family and nature at their local state park,” said Dustin Yates, Lake Anna State Park manager. “This annual event has become a cherished tradition for many, and we’re excited to help you start the new year with an unforgettable experience. Join us and make this year’s celebration one to remember.”
In King George County, Caledon State Park offers a winter habits and habitat hike (9 a.m.) along the Fern Hollow trail with a ranger.
Widewater State Park
In Stafford County, Widewater State Park offers a sunrise hike (7 a.m. at visitor center) and a midday hike (11 a.m.) on the Holly Marsh trail. Registration is required for the sunrise hike since it begins before the park is open (RSVP here). For the little ones, a toddler-friendly hike (2 p.m.) will explore the Long Pond trail, a 1-mile, looped hike around the Visitor Center that goes along Aquia Creek.
New this year, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation will be hosting a few guided hikes at natural area preserves, which are managed by the Virginia Natural Heritage Program. Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve will be open for a 4- to 5-mile hike along the Boykin’s Landing Trail with views over Potomac Creek and the Potomac River. Crow’s Nest supports over 2,300 acres of mature coastal plain hardwood forest and 900 acres of tidal and non-tidal wetlands, providing habitat for several rare plant and animal species. This hike is limited to 15 guests, and registration is required (email Michael.Lott@dcr.virginia.gov by Wednesday).
Traveling to other parts of the state? Visit this special event website for more information on how to reserve your spot for this unique way to kick off the new year.
Visitors will receive a commemorative sticker while supplies last.
