First Day Hikes program set for New Year’s Day in NC and SC

Time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail Friday – North Carolina is encouraging people to visit a state park on New Year’s Day as part of the annual First Day Hikes program.

The program is being offered in South Carolina, too.

Last year in North Carolina, every state park had a First Day Hike, with a record attendance of nearly 3,000 people.

All the parks’ First Day hikes are guided, and most are led by rangers. There’s no admission charge, and all parks are open New Year’s Day.

Eno River State Park near Durham began the tradition more than 40 years ago, according to the state. This year, some 46 guided hikes are scheduled for Friday, and they range from short jaunts to 6-mile treks.

N.C. parks near Charlotte include Lake Norman, South Mountain and Crowders Mountain. Go to www.ncparks.gov for more details on the program.

South Carolina’s First Day program is also ranger-led, and most hikes are free. Details are on www.southcarolinaparks.com.

Staff reports

This story was originally published December 29, 2015 at 10:02 AM with the headline "First Day Hikes program set for New Year’s Day in NC and SC."