First Day Hikes at Illinois State Parks

Description

First Day Hikes – Ring in 2026 with Nature!

Illinois Department of Natural Resources in partnership with America’s State Parks. As our nation prepares to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026, Americans across the country are celebrating by reconnecting with our natural and cultural heritage. Join us as we kick off this historic year with the nationwide First Day Hikes initiative!

From coast to coast, individuals and families will welcome the New Year by stepping outdoors, enjoying fresh air, and exploring the incredible landscapes that make our country unique. These guided hikes offer a fun, energizing way to start 2026—promoting physical and mental well-being, building community, and inspiring lifelong appreciation for the outdoors.

Each year, America’s State Parks welcome over 860 million visitors, contributing more than $23 billion to the economy. Be part of a tradition that highlights the beauty and value of our public lands. Last year, nearly 55,000 people participated in First Day Hikes, collectively hiking more than 133,000 miles nationwide!

You’re invited!
Celebrate the first day of 2026 by exploring an Illinois state park. Try a new trail, discover a new favorite spot, or share a beloved park with friends and family. Let Illinois’ natural treasures inspire your adventures all year long.

Start the New Year on the right foot—take a First Day Hike!

Find a First Day Hike near you

List of Illinois State Parks participating in a First Day Hike (Click the links below for trail maps.)

• Beall Woods State Park
• Beaver Dam State Park
• Castle Rock State Park
• Eagle Creek State Park
• Fox Ridge State Park
• Giant City State Park
• Illinois Beach State Park
• Lincoln Trail State Park
• Lincoln's New Salem
• Pere Marquette State Park
• Rock Island Trail State Park
• Sand Ridge State Forest
• Sangchris Lake State Park
• Starved Rock State Park
• Trail of Tears State Park
•  Volo Bog State Natural Area
• Wolf Creek State Park

Time of Event: You can go anytime you want. But remember, days are shorter in the winter, and you may want to plan an earlier start time. Have a good idea of the usable daylight hours before going hiking. Check the park's website for hours of operation.

Location: There will be a designated “check in” area. Likely near the visitors center. (Please see individual site for those details). The “check in” area will have complimentary stickers, trail maps, and any other relevant info you might need. You can go on a short walk, or a long hike, or anything in-between.

Sign-In: We would love to hear from all the hikers who participated! Please fill in the log book, and let us know how many people are in your group, how many miles you hiked, and where you are from. (you can fill this out before or after your hike). There will be a commemorative sticker to remember your healthy start to the new year in one of Illinois’ beautiful state parks.

Celebrate! We want to see your photos. We will collect the pictures of you and other folks across Illinois who started the new year off on the right foot. Post your photos on social media using the hashtag #ILFirstDayHikes and tag Illinois Department of Natural Resources.