Dozens of Missouri state parks will participate in the Missouri Department of Natural Resources First Day Hike on Jan. 1.
More than 40 free, guided hikes will take place on trails in Missouri state parks and historic sites throughout New Years Day.
In Mid-Missouri, the event locations include Ha Ha Tonka at Camdenton, Lake of the Ozarks State Park at Kaiser, Rock Bridge Memorial State Park at Columbia, and Katy Trail State Park at the Boonville Trailhead.
The First Day hikes are part of nationwide state park program that gives guests the opportunity to start the year off right with a healthy hike.
As a part of the national effort, people from all 50 states are expected to celebrate the New Year by taking a hike in one of the nation's state parks. In Missouri, the guided hikes range from one-half mile to four miles and will be taking place on a variety of terrains varying from thick forests to the open prairie.
A list of state parks with guided hikes on Jan. 1 is available at mostateparks.com/page/59235/first-day-hikes.
Visitors planning on enjoying a First Day Hike should dress appropriately for the weather. Many parks and sites require participants to register in advance. For more information on First Day Hikes, visit mostateparks.com.