TENNESSEE, USA — Tennessee State Parks announced it is ringing in the New Year with guided First Day Hikes at parks across the state.
All hikes are on Jan. 1 with the exception of hikes on Dec. 31 at David Crockett Birthplace, Harrison Bay and Radnor Lake state parks, according to officials.
The parks service said the hikes are designed for all ages and abilities to give an opportunity to start a New Year’s resolution or just enjoy the beauty of nature in the state parks.
Some state parks in East Tennessee include:
- Big Ridge State Park in Union County
- Cove Lake State Park in Campbell County
- Fort Loudoun State Historic Park in Monroe County
- Frozen Head State Park in Morgan County
- Indian Mountain State Park in Campbell County
- Norris Dam State Park in Anderson County
- Panther Creek State Park in Hamblen County
- Seven Islands State Birding Park in Knox County
Details on the First Day Hikes for individual parks can be found here.
The state parks urge hikers to prepare for the weather, have sturdy footwear, and bring water and snacks.
The First Day Hikes begin the parks’ annual Signature Hikes series throughout the year, featuring such events as the Spring Hike and National Trails Day Hike, according to officials. The First Day Hikes are part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states.
Visitors are reminded that the parks are open 365 days a year, and Tennessee State Parks has more than 1,000 miles of trails.
Tennesseans may also want to support the state parks’ Trail Pack program with donations to support the maintenance and development of trails in the parks. Each $25 Trail Pack donation provides direct funding to the Tennessee State Parks trails program.
