CHEYENNE (WNE) — Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails has announced the 13th consecutive year of its popular First Day Hikes on Jan. 1, 2024.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s state parks to encourage people to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. On New Year’s Day, people of all ages can kick off the new year outdoors with access to hundreds of free guided hikes organized in all 50 states.

“This outdoor event has become an annual tradition for families and nature lovers of all ages, with 370 in attendance on January 1, 2023,” said Laurel Stephens, outreach coordinator for the Wyoming Office of Outdoor Recreation, in a news release. 

These events will be held at 16 Wyoming State Park and Historic Site locations statewide. Hikes are free and open to the public; all day use fees will be waived on Jan. 1 as part of this initiative.

Participants at each site will also have the chance to win a 2024 Annual Day Use Certificate and enter a statewide grand prize drawing for participating.

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, ranging from 1 to 3 miles. Details about hiking locations, difficulty, length and terrain for area First Day Hikes are as follows:

• Curt Gowdy State Park — 10:30 a.m., meet at Visitor Center, hike 1-2 mile(s) on easy terrain, 307-632-7946

• Wyoming Territorial Prison State Historic Site — 10 a.m., meet at parking lot, hike 1-3 mile(s) on easy terrain, 307-745-6161 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.

To learn more about First Day Hike events, visit wyoparks.org.