Tennesseans can launch their New Year’s resolutions for healthy lifestyles with one of the free guided hikes on New Year’s Day at Tennessee State Parks throughout the state. The two area state parks–Paris Landing and Reelfoot Lake–will be participating.
There are hikes available for all ages and abilities. More than 40 parks are participating, and all the hikes are led by Tennessee State Parks rangers.
These are the Paris Landing plans:
JANUARY 1
Meet at: Paris Landing Nature Center
Price:
- $0 / Free
- $5 / Free+ Donation
- $10 / Free+ Donation
- $20 / Free+ Donation
- $50 / Free+ Donation
“If we were meant to stay in one place, we’d have roots instead of feet.”
— Rachel Wolchin
We will meet at the Nature Center and hike the 3.2 mile easy to moderate, Raptor Ridge Trail.
*Remember to bring a water bottle and wear appropriate clothing and closed-toed shoes. Don’t forget your camera and fur friends are welcome!
At Reelfoot Lake:
JANUARY 1
Meet at: Reelfoot Lake State Park Museum 2595 SR. 21 E. Tiptonville, TN. 38079
Price:
- $0 / Attendee
- $10 / Attendee + Donation
- $10 / Donation Only (not attending)
- $20 / Attendee + Donation
- $20 / Donation Only (not attending)
Reelfoot Lake State Park wants you to join the Rangers with the first hike of the year. This hike was designed by Tennessee State Parks to encourage people to get out and hike. Hiking at Reelfoot Lake State Park, you can possibly see Eagles flying over, ice formations, snow geese and ducks roosting at Long Point or Black Bayou, great for photography!!
Reelfoot Lake is a major wintering ground for thousands of ducks, geese, and hundreds of Bald Eagles. On this hike we will explore areas where these birds are concentrated during the evening hours as they come in to roost. If you want to watch the sky alive with waterfowl, you don’t want to miss the First Hike! This is an easy 1 mile hike and open to both adults and children. Please wear sturdy shoes or boots. Due to weather conditions, Rangers will announce location of hike that day.
Hike Reservations: 731-253-9652 Meet @ 3:00pm
Camping Reservations: 731-538-3356
Details about the hikes at specific state parks can be found at this link.
Among the hikes are a strenuous 10-mile excursion at Fall Creek Falls State Park; a trip along the Peg Leg Mine trail followed by a cup of hot cocoa at Roan Mountain State Park; a two-mile round trip on flat terrain at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park; and a moderately difficult 1.5-mile trail at Panther Creek State Park. The 57 Tennessee State Parks have more than 1,000 miles of trails.
Hikers are encouraged to wear appropriate hiking boots, layered clothing, and consider taking hiking sticks. Hikers should also consider making overnight stays at parks with lodges, campsites and cabins. While everyone is encouraged to participate in the First Day Hikes, visitors are reminded that the parks are open 365 days a year.
The First Day Hikes are part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states.