Celebrate 2026 with a First Day Hike: San Antonio and Hill Country State Parks Host Dozens of Outdoor Events to Ring in the New Year
With 2026 marking the start of America’s semiquincentennial, residents across the San Antonio area are invited to celebrate New Year’s Day in a uniquely Texan way — on the trails of nearby state parks.
Texas State Parks will host a record number of First Day Hikes on January 1, 2026, encouraging locals to reconnect with nature and community through guided and self-guided hikes, bike rides, wildlife walks, and even a few polar plunges. These annual events are part of a national initiative to get people outdoors and moving on the first day of the year.
“There is no better way to spend a beautiful January day than walking with friends and family at a Texas State Park,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “Each year, Texas leads the nation as thousands of Texans turn out to a nearby state park to ring in the new year and celebrate with a First Day Hike.”
Last year, Texas topped all other states in First Day Hike participation with nearly 9,500 hikers logging almost 19,000 miles. With more than 30 parks in the San Antonio and Hill Country region participating this year, 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest yet.
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New Year’s Eve Events in the Hill Country
For night owls and star chasers, several parks are offering special New Year’s Eve hikes to welcome 2026 under the stars:
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10:00 p.m. – Honey Creek Nature Hike at Honey Creek State Natural Area (Registration required)
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11:15 p.m. – Midnight Summit Hike at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
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11:30 p.m. – Midnight Hike at Inks Lake State Park (Registration required)
January 1 Highlights Across San Antonio & Surrounding Parks
Whether you're seeking a scenic stroll, a family-friendly trek, or a guided wildlife experience, there’s something for everyone:
9:00 a.m. – Family-Friendly Morning Hike
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Great for all ages, this morning walk offers an easy introduction to hiking for kids and newcomers.
9:30 a.m. – First Day Poetry Hike
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Start 2026 with creative inspiration and time in nature through poetry and trail walking.
10:00 a.m. – Dinosaur Track Trek: First Day Hike – Trek to the Tracks
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Take a five-mile guided hike to see preserved dinosaur tracks — a prehistoric start to the year!
10:00 a.m. – C.C.C. Our History
Blanco State Park
Learn about the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps who helped build the park nearly a century ago.
12:00 p.m. – Palmetto Plunge
Palmetto State Park
Brave the chilly waters of Oxbow Lake with a festive polar plunge!
1:00 p.m. – B.A.R.K. Ranger Hike
Buescher State Park
Hike with your four-legged friend and earn a special ranger certificate just for dogs.
3:00 p.m. – First Day Fossils
Pedernales Falls State Park
Explore the park’s scenic views while discovering fossil history along the trail.
3:30 p.m. – First Day Hike to Monkey Rock
Lost Maples State Natural Area
Hike to the iconic Monkey Rock formation — a perfect adventure to kick off the year.
Whether you're a serious hiker or just want to enjoy some fresh air, First Day Hikes in the San Antonio area include both guided tours and self-guided hikes at many locations like McKinney Falls, Guadalupe River, Blanco, and Lockhart State Parks.
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Plan Ahead for Your First Day Adventure
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Reserve Day Passes Early: Many parks reach capacity on January 1. Reserve your spot in advance at tpwd.texas.gov or call (512) 389-8900.
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Check for Registration Requirements: Some events, especially guided hikes at Honey Creek and Inks Lake, require advance registration.
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Bring Essentials: Comfortable shoes, layers, water, and snacks are all recommended. If you're doing a polar plunge — don’t forget a towel and dry clothes.
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Texas State Parks Pass: Want to explore more in 2026? The $70 Texas State Parks Pass waives entrance fees for a year for you and everyone in your vehicle, plus discounts on camping and store purchases.
Celebrate the Outdoors — and America 250
This year’s First Day Hike events also mark the beginning of America 250, the national semiquincentennial celebration of the United States’ founding. As Paul McCormack, president of America’s State Parks, noted: “We invite you to start your year on a First Day Hike enjoying and celebrating our incredible public lands.”
So whether you're hitting the trail with family, walking the dog, spotting birds, or learning about Texas history, spending January 1 at a San Antonio-area state park is a step in the right direction — for your health, your spirit, and your community.
Find a full list of San Antonio-area First Day Hike events at Texas State Parks First Day Hikes Calendar.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in Houston.