These hikes are part of the America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative that takes place in all 50 states and encourages individuals and families to stay active with a hike outdoors. Whatever your motivation, an Oklahoma hike makes for a New Year’s Day you won’t regret.
Embark on a simple walk close to natural wonders at Boiling Springs State Park, encounter wildlife and waterside views on the trails near Lake Murray and everything in between on one of these invigorating excursions. With over 20 participating parks across the state, there’s sure to be a hike happening near you. Dress warm, wear sturdy shoes and get ready to develop a healthy habit while discovering Oklahoma’s abundant nature.
Northeast
Cherokee Landing State Park - Park Hill
- Time: January 1 at 10am
- Meeting location: Park office
- Name of trail: Red Fox Hike Trail
- Degree of difficulty: Easy
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: .75 miles
- Things to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing
- More information: Call 918-457-5716. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided after the hike.
Greenleaf State Park - Braggs
- Time: January 1 at 10am & 1pm
- Meeting location: Park office
- Name of trail: Family Fun Trail
- Degree of difficulty: Easy
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: 1 mile
- Things to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing
- More information: Call 918-487-5196. Hot chocolate and snacks will be provided after the hike.
Keystone State Park - Sand Springs
- Time: January 1 at 12am & 10am
- Meeting location: Park office
- Name of trail: Ranger Trail
- Degree of difficulty: Moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: 1 mile
- Things to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing
- More information: Call 918-865-4991
Osage Hills State Park - Pawhuska
- Time: January 1 at 9am & 12pm
- Meeting location: 9am hike will meet at the overlook. 12pm hike will meet at the ballfield and hike the Lookout Lake Trail.
- Degree of difficulty: Moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: 1 mile for 9am or 4 miles for 12pm
- Things to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing
- More information: Call 918-336-4141
Central
Lake Thunderbird State Park - Norman
- Time: January 1 at 12:30pm
- Meeting location: Discovery Cove Nature Center
- Degree of difficulty: Easy or moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: .75 miles or 1.5 miles
- Things to bring: Binoculars, camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing
- More information: Call 405-360-3572. Refreshments will be provided after the hike.
Southeast
Talimena State Park - Talihina
- Time: January 1 at 2pm
- Meeting location: Ouachita Trailhead
- Name of trail: Ouachita Trail
- Degree of difficulty: Moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: Yes
- Length of trail: 1.5 miles
- Things to bring: Water, hiking shoes, binoculars, camera
- More information: Call 918-471-5394
South-Central
Lake Texoma State Park - Kingston
- Time: January 1 at 9am Meeting location: Former horse stable in the Equestrian Trail Area Degree of difficulty: Moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: No
- Length of trail: 3.9 miles
- Things to bring: Water bottle, camera, binoculars, warm clothing
- More information: Call 580-564-2566
Southwest
Foss State Park - Foss
- Time: January 1 at 2pm
- Meeting location: Enclosed Cedar Point shelter above the marina.
- Name of trail: Great Western Heart Healthy Trail sponsored by AARP Oklahoma
- Degree of difficulty: Moderate
- Pets on leash allowed: No
- Length of trail: 2 miles
- Things to bring: Water bottle, binoculars, camera, hiking stick
- More information: Call 580-592-4433 or check the Foss State Park Facebook page. Hot beverages will be provided after the hike.
If you miss the January 1st hikes, check out these guided hikes happening at Fort Cobb State Park and Great Plains State Park.
