ALACHUA COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – If one of your goals for the new year is to be more active, Florida State Parks can help you get off on the right track.
There are 175 state parks in Florida. Forty of them are hosting First Day Hikes on January 1.
In north-central Florida, nine parks will be hosting New Year’s Day events.
So after you ring in the new year on Sunday, get up early on Monday and pull on the hiking shoes.
The hikes vary from short strolls to longer treks. Organizers say these events offer a variety of ways for you to get outdoors and start the new year on the right foot.
One state park in the 352 is even hosting a first day equestrian trail ride.
Some state parks offer hikes guided by rangers or volunteers. Start times vary. Some parks require you to pay a park admission fee to participate.
You’re encouraged to bring water, snacks and your sense of adventure.
First Day Hikes in north-central Florida
Click links below for start times and hike details
- First Day Equestrian Trail Ride, Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve, Cedar Key
- First Day Hike, Crystal River Preserve State Park, Crystal River
- First Day Hike, Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Homosassa
- First Day Hike, Fanning Springs State Park, Fanning Springs
- First Day Hike, Fort Cooper State Park, Inverness
- First Day Hike, Mike Roess Gold Head Branch State Park
- First Day Hike, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park, Micanopy
- First Day Hike, Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park, High Springs
- First Day Hike, Suwannee River State Park, Live Oak