‘First Day’ hikes at 3 state parks

Enjoy a national tradition on New Year’s Day by taking part in a First Day Hike at a Washington state park.

First Day Hikes, started two decades ago in Massachusetts, will be commemorated in all 50 states this year, officials said. It’s part of a campaign to promote year-round use of the nation’s state park systems and encourage healthy living.

This year, three Washington state parks are offering free guided walks Sunday with a cup of hot cocoa afterward. (A fourth hike at Squilchuck State Park was canceled.)

People should bring food and water, warm clothes including hats and gloves, and sunglasses.

The hikes are scheduled for:

Deception Pass State Park, Oak Harbor: The mile-and-a-half hike begins at 11 a.m. at the Bowman Bay parking area. Trail is moderate. Children must be 5 or older.

Fields Spring State Park, Anatone: The 2-mile snowshoe walk in southeastern Washington begins at 1 p.m. at the Snowflake Shelter. Trail is moderate. Children must be 8 or older. Snowshoes are available at the park, but must be reserved. Reserve snowshoes by calling 509-256-3332.

Lake Sylvia State Park, Montesano: The 2-mile hike in Grays Harbor begins at 1:30 p.m. at the beach kitchen shelter. Trail is moderately easy, and children must be 5 or older.

For more information, go to www.parks.wa.gov/events.

Herald staff