Want to clear your mind after the holidays and start the new year on a healthy foot? The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) invites everyone to join the nationwide First Day Hikes on January 1. These free, self-guided events take place across 17 Illinois state parks and are part of a national effort to encourage outdoor activity on the year’s first day.
The First Day Hike program first took root in Massachusetts back in 1992 and grew into a national initiative under America’s State Parks Foundation. This year holds special significance, as the 2026 campaign is highlighting America’s 250th anniversary, celebrating the public lands that have shaped the country’s past and present. As IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie said, “There’s no better way to clear your mind after the holidays and look ahead to a new year than to explore the outdoors.”
For local residents, the path to a fresh start leads to Lincoln Trail State Park. Park Superintendent Tom Hintz announced the local event on the park’s Facebook page, inviting neighbors to start their new year right on the trails. The hike is set for January 1, 2026 at 10am and will begin at the Airstrip Trail. This trail is an ideal choice for the community, as its gentle terrain makes it a relaxing and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
Hikers will enjoy a peaceful journey through quiet woodlands and open meadows, all while passing along a historic airstrip. The route provides a mix of sunny stretches and shaded areas, offering a beautiful backdrop for nature observation and an opportunity to spot local winter wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the sign-in area, pick up a commemorative sticker, enjoy hot chocolate by the fire and snap a picture for social media using the hashtag #ILFirstDayHikes before heading out. Remember, admission to all Illinois State Parks is always free.
