All Virginia State Parks will feature a “First Day” hike on Jan. 1

All 36 Virginia State Parks will offer guided hikes for the 5th Annual First Day Hikes sponsored by America’s State Parks.

On Jan. 1, 2015 more than 11,000 visitors came out to Virginia State Parks to participate in this program held across all 50 states. 2016 marks Virginia State Parks’ 80th anniversary so this event will be a great kickoff to our special year.

In addition to the scheduled guided hikes, hikers may create their own First Day Hike experience on any of the parks’  trails. In addition to the general maps on the state website, more detailed maps are available on the Virginia State Parks app and can be cached in advance so hikers can use them even when they don’t have a cell signal.

Special Promotions

The first 50 participants at each park will receive a specially designed commemorative pin in honor of our 80th anniversary.

There is an annual First Day Hike photo contest this year as well. Entries must be taken in a Virginia State Parks on Jan. 1 and uploaded to the contest site prior to 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 1. A full list of rules can be found on the contest site. A VSP marketing team will judge the entries and select the winners. Prizes include:

Grand Prize: $500 Virginia State Parks Overnight Stay Gift Certificate

1st Place: Lifetime Parking Pass

2nd Place: $150 Virginia State Parks Overnight Stay Gift Certificate

Multiple 3rd Place Prizes (at least 3): 2,000 Customer Loyalty Points for our brand new Customer Loyalty Program that begins January 1 that can be saved and used for free or discounted camping and cabin stays.

First Day Hike Team Competition is also featured.

The competition is designed for families and friends to join together to visit one of 36 Virginia State Parks on Jan. 1 and hike together. Research shows that healthy lifestyle behaviors are easier if you have supoort. Teams must have at least 2 members. You can sign up in advance or on Jan. 1. After you complete the hike, you must confirm you participated no later than 11:59 p.m. on Jan 1 in order to be entered in the contest. Winners will be selected randomly.

For more information go to http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/blog/first-day-hikes-2016