Step Into The New Year With A First Day Hike at Pike Lake
Join the thousands of people across the country kick off the new year with a First Day Hike at a Wisconsin State Park near you. Celebrate the new year by stepping into nature with a First Day Hike. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will join the adventure sponsored by America’s State Parks on New Year's Day for the 10th year in a row.
Due to COVID-19, First Day hikes will be a self-guided
experience to help keep guides and park visitors healthy and safe. To
help slow the spread of COVID-19, people are encouraged to hike at
properties within their communities with people from their household and
practice social distancing. Use our Pike Lake Unit Winter Map to help plan your First Day Hike or call 262-670-3403. A vehicle admission sticker is required to visit state
park system properties. Stickers can be purchased online, by calling
1-888-305-0398 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at individual properties via
self-registration stations, electronic kiosks or drive-up window service
(select properties only).
Each year thousands of people across the nation kick off the new year by hiking at state parks, forests or trails on New Year’s Day. These hikes provide a way for individuals and families to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, exercising and connecting with nature. For many it has become a tradition. With over 14 million visitors, Wisconsin state parks, forests and trails feature some of the Midwest's best scenery. The change in seasons doesn’t mean an end to exploring the outdoors. Wisconsin’s beautiful state parks, forests and trails offer opportunities to get outdoors – even in winter.
Looking to enjoy Wisconsin State Parks in a different light? The DNR encourages visitors to hike under a full moon or with a headlamp or flashlight instead of attending the annual candlelight events held at night, which have been canceled to avoid attracting crowds.
Share you adventure with us using the hashtags #OutWiGo and #FirstDayHike.
