AUSTIN— Hit the trails at a state park on New Year’s Day and participate in a First Day Hike. As part of the national initiative, Texas State Parks will be hosting a variety of programs for the whole family to enjoy.
“There is no better way to ring in 2019 than outside in Texas,” said Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks. “Home to some of the best views and vistas in Texas, we invite you to spend the day at your favorite Texas State Park and participate in a First Day Hike event. With trails for all skill levels, state parks in Texas are a fantastic way to get active and spend time with the entire family. I look forward to seeing you on the trails!”
The First Day Hikes events range from strolls on scenic trails, midnight walks, polar plunges, bike rides, and short treks with four-legged family members to more strenuous hikes for experienced visitors. These hikes aim to help visitors commit to their New Year’s resolutions to get healthy. Visit tpwd.texas.gov for entry fees to each park and more information about the activities.
These are some New Year hikes (Jan. 1) near Milam County:
Bastrop State Park
10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. – Hike is 4 miles and a car is needed to get to the starting point. Meet at the Historic Golf Shelter. From there we will drive to the starting point of the hike. Bring water, snacks/ lunch, binoculars, wear close-toed shoes and be prepared for the weather. If rain cancels the backcountry hike, hike will be on the paved golf trails.
Blanco State Park
There are two first day hikes scheduled. The first is a 2-mile trek that begins at the Devil’s waterhole parking lot from 10-11:30 p.m. The second is a Starlight Nigh Hike that starts at 6:30 p.m.
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site
9-10 a.m. – Join a farmer from the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm for the on-mile hike down to the farm to check on the animals, milk the cow, and feed the livestock.
Pedernales Falls State Park
There are two hikes and one campfire event. The first hike begins at 9 a.m., lasts one hour, is one and half miles down a gravel path and meet up is at Main Falls parking lot. The second hike is 1-2 p.m. and meeting place for half-mile walk is at Twin Falls trail head. The campsite fire meet-up is behind Campsite 33 at 3:30 p.m. There will be black-eyed peas, cornbread and collard greens.
Lake Somerville State Park - Nails Creek Unit
10-11 a.m. – Hike is 2 miles, a moderate difficulty level and guided. Meet at Nails Creek Headquarters. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress weather appropriate.
10-11:30 a.m. – Guided hike is 2.5 miles. Meet at Birch Creek headquarters.
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