Iowans are being encouraged to start 2026 off with a little exercise, fellowship and fresh air. This is the 14th year the Iowa Department of Natural Resources has offered First Day Hikes, where folks can gather on January 1st at any of several dozen state parks and forests for a short hike through the woods. Sherry Arntzen, Chief of the DNR’s Parks, Forests and Preserves Bureau, says it makes for an excellent New Year’s Day activity — and it’s free.
The 44 hiking areas are spread out in parks and forests across the state, so everyone will be just a short drive away from being able to take part. Even when it’s below freezing, Arntzen says the First Day Hikes are well attended.
Better yet, Arntzen says some of the hikes will feature treats at the end of the trail.
Some of the hikes are as short as a half-mile, while one planned for more adventurous hikers in western Iowa will go six miles. Full details about Iowa’s First Day Hikes can be found at www.iowadnr.gov/firstdayhikes.
