New year, new you! Kick off January on the right foot with a healthy, free guided hike through one of Nevada’s beautiful state parks. On January 1, 2026, parks across the state will host First Day Hikes, and this year is extra special as it launches a challenge to collectively log 250 miles in celebration of the United States’ upcoming 250th birthday.
Which Nevada state parks host First Day Hikes?
- Ice Age Fossils Midnight Hike – the star of the show – on the Big Dig Trail, with a New Year’s countdown at midnight at the Camp Site shade structure along the trail. It’s one of the earliest First Day Hike experiences in the region!
- Valley of Fire State Park – the park hosts multiple hikes, with different lengths and difficulty levels. Check them out here.
- Spring Mountain Ranch State Park – a relaxing 1.2 mile round trip hike where the history and current status of the endangered Pahrump Poolfish are discussed. At the end of the hike, you’ll tour the historic cabin (2nd oldest building in Southern Nevada) and blacksmith shop, plus a special tour of the Ranch House.
- Overlook Trail and Spring Mountain Ranch – a relaxing 0.8 mile round trip hike where the history of Spring Mountain Ranch and how it connects to the development of the Las Vegas valley will be discussed.
- Mormon Station State Historic Park – a guided 1.2-mile hike with a relaxed pace, making it perfect for families and beginners. You can enjoy scenic views of Genoa and learn about the early pioneer history preserved at Mormon Station.
- Spooner Lake State Park – expect rain or snow here – snow shows are mandatory. Bring your own if you can!
- Big Bend of the Colorado
- Cathedral Gorge
- Dayton State Park
- South Fork State Recreation Area
- Washoe Lake State Park
Good to know before you go for free guided hikes
- If you want to participate in the 250-Mile Challenge, you can download the OuterSpatial app to check in to your hike. You’ll then also enter a giveaway for a Nevada State Parks All Access Annual Permit.
- Keep in mind that temperatures can be freezing in Northern Nevada and deceptive in the South. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a headlamp.
- While the guided hikes are often free, standard park entry fees can still apply unless you have a state park pass. Check all the details for the specific hike you plan to attend.
- Hikes are weather-dependent, so check the official Nevada State Parks Facebook page for last-minute cancellations.