Santa Fe, NM – Celebrate the start of 2025 by stepping into the great outdoors with a First Day Hike at one of New Mexico’s stunning state parks. On New Year’s Day, January 1, 2025, visitors are invited to join in the nationwide initiative, America’s State Parks First Day Hikes, with guided hikes and polar plunges taking place across the Land of Enchantment.
A total of 14 New Mexico State Parks will host a variety of activities, including guided hikes for all skill levels, stunning views of New Mexico’s landscapes, and the chance to make a splash at polar plunges at select locations. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, there’s an activity for everyone.
“First Day Hikes are a fantastic way to begin the new year by focusing on health and well-being,” said Toby Velasquez, Director of New Mexico State Parks. “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.”
Hike, Explore, and Celebrate
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.
In addition to the hikes, some parks will host invigorating polar plunges for those who want to take a daring dip into cold, clear waters on the first day of the year.
Participating Parks & Activities
| Location | Time | Activity |
| Brantley Lake State Park | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | First Day Hike |
| Cerrillos Hills State Park | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | First Day Hike |
| Eagle Nest Lake State Park | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | New Year’s Polar Plunge |
| Eagle Nest Lake State Park | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM | First Day Hike Polar Stomp |
| Elephant Butte Lake State Park | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
First Day Hike Dam Walk |
| Hyde Memorial State Park | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | First Day Hike |
| Living Desert State Park | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | First Day Hike |
| Oliver Lee Memorial State Park | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | First Day Hike |
| Pancho Villa State Park | 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM | First Day Hike |
| Santa Rosa Lake State Park | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | First Day Hike |
| Storrie Lake State Park | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Polar Bear Plunge |
| Sugarite Canyon State Park | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | First Day Hike Snow Stomp |
| Sumner Lake State Park | 1:00 PM to – 2:00 PM
12:00 PM to – 2:00 PM |
First Day Hike |
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.
Share Your Hike and Adventure
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, please visit https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/ and click on the Event Calendar tab.
Best regards,
