Texans rang in the new year on the trails as Texas State Parks recorded its fourth straight year of record participation during its annual First Day Hike events.
Several parks reported especially high turnout, including Dinosaur Valley State Park near Glen Rose, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Brazos Bend State Park, Cedar Hill State Park and Palo Pinto Mountains State Park.
Locally, hikers gathered at Hill Country State Natural Area to start the year outdoors on the park’s trails.
On Jan. 1, 86 sites hosted 181 guided hikes and programs, drawing 12,835 participants who logged a combined 28,154 miles. State officials said the totals for sites, events, participants and miles all set new records, with attendance increasing by more than 3,000 people and nearly 10,000 additional miles compared with last year.
Texas also led the nation in the number of sites, events and participants.
“Texas led the nation once again in First Day Hike participation,” Texas State Parks Director Rodney Franklin said. “We had wonderful weather, and it was a great way to spend time with family in the outdoors at one of your Texas State Parks.”
Officials said First Day Hikes are designed to encourage families and visitors to explore Texas parks and stay active year-round.
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