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Start 2024 on the "Right Foot" with a First Day Hike

Colorado Parks and Wildlife invites all Coloradans to welcome the new year by heading outside!

December 27, 2023

Colorado Parks and Wildlife is pleased to welcome in the new year by once again participating in First Day Hikes. Dozens of events are scheduled in state parks across Colorado on New Year’s Day. Many parks are also offering refreshments and free giveaways for this event, such as outdoor swag and gift cards.

The First Day Hikes initiative was created to offer everyone an opportunity to begin the new year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors at a state park close to home. The programs are free but a vehicle day pass ($10-$11) or state park annual pass ($80) is required to enter the park.

Please note that some hikes do require advance registration, so book your spot ASAP!


Find a First Day Hike Near You:

Chatfield 2024 First Day Hike (10 AM or 1 PM)
In the morning, get your legs and minds moving along a 2-mile trek through the paved Plum Creek Nature Area. The afternoon hike will be a leisurely 3-mile stroll along the Cigar Pond Trail.

Roxborough 2024 First Day Hike (9 AM, 10 AM, or 11 AM)
Three different hikes will be available for varying degrees of skill level. The 9 a.m. hike is a 6.2-mile trek along Carpenter Peak Trail with almost 1,000 ft of elevation gain. The 10 a.m. hike is a 3-mile trek along the South Rim Trail with ~500 ft elevation gain. The third hike, which starts at 11 a.m., is a 2.5-mile stroll along Fountain Valley Trail.


CLICK HERE to see a complete list of participating parks & First Day hikes.


Whether you're planning to participate in a First Day Hike, reserving a campsite, or learning to fish, you can start your 2024 outdoor adventures by visiting cpw.state.co.us.