EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Fourteen state parks in New Mexico will be hosting guided hikes and other activities on Wednesday, Jan. 1 to kick off the new year in a healthy way.
This is part of the nationwide initiative, America’s State Parks First Day Hikes, which encourages people to get out into the fresh air and celebrate the new year outdoors.
“First Day Hikes are a fantastic way to begin the new year by focusing on health and well-being,” Toby Velasquez, director of New Mexico State Parks, said. “Spending time outdoors, breathing in fresh air, and engaging in physical activity can boost both mental and physical health. We encourage everyone to join us for a hike, embrace nature, and start the year feeling energized and connected to the outdoors.”
Guided hikes are free and open to the public, with “options suitable for a wide range of abilities. Knowledgeable guides will lead participants through picturesque trails while sharing information about the local wildlife, habitats, and history of New Mexico’s treasured state parks,” the New Mexico State Parks Division said in a news release.
In addition to the hikes, some parks will host polar plunges for those who want to “take a daring dip into cold, clear waters on the first day of the year,” the news release said.
In Southern New Mexico, Elephant Butte Lake State Park will host a hike across the dam from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Jan. 1.
At Oliver Lee Memorial State Park, outside of Alamogordo, there will be a guided hike from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. that day.
At Panco Villa State Park, near Columbus, there will be a hike from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on New Year’s Day.
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful lakeside walk or an adventurous hike up a mountain, there’s something for everyone. Plus, if you’d rather relax and take in the scenery, visitors can enjoy picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, or simply spending the day outdoors,” the State Parks Division said.
Visitors are encouraged to share their First Day Hike experience on social media using the hashtags #FirstDayHikes and #NewMexicoStateParks. For more information on the First Day Hikes and to find the park nearest you, click here and visit the Events Calendar.
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