MADISON, Wis. — After being surrounded by family indoors for the holidays, getting outside for some fresh air may be a welcome gift for many.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is once again offering First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day for all Wisconsinites to enjoy.

What You Need To Know

  • The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is once again offering First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day for all Wisconsinites to enjoy

  • Guided hikes range in a distance from one to three miles, and have set start times and gathering spots

  • Wisconsinites can also take a self-guided hike and get recommended routes from property staff during the drop-in windows

  • Hikers are also encouraged to dress warmly, as the weather in January is usually cold

There is no shortage of parks hosting the hikes either. Everywhere from Baraboo to Eagle to Door County are taking part in the annual event.

“Starting the new year in the outdoors is refreshing for both our body and mind,” said Steve Schmelzer, DNR Parks and Recreation management director. “Our OutWiGo initiative promotes the physical, mental and emotional benefits that recreating in nature provides. We invite everyone to attend a First Day Hike and feel good in the outdoors in 2024.”

Guided hikes range in a distance from one to three miles, and have set start times and gathering spots. They’re led by property naturalists or local experts. Officials said it’s a great way for beginners or those who haven’t explored Wisconsin’s nature to experience what it’s like. Some of the hikes are pet-free, so make sure to check before bringing them along.

Wisconsinites can also take a self-guided hike and get recommended routes from property staff during the drop-in windows.

All information on guided and self-guided hikes can be found here.

Hikers are also encouraged to dress warmly, as the weather in January is usually cold. However, some properties will have some bonfires and warming shelters to escape the possible bitter temperatures.

While the hikes are free, Wisconsin state park admission stickers or state trail passes may be required. There are options to get one for free from your local library. All properties are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round.

Beyond hiking, some events may also offer snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, refreshments and other winter activities, pending conditions. 

“First Day Hikes bring together visitors from all walks of life looking for winter fun. We hope that events like this will inspire passion for the outdoors and a desire to explore our state’s natural treasures throughout the year,” said Schmelzer.

Here are all the First Day Hikes that are scheduled for this year:

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