First Day Hike

We are pleased that so many people have made First Day Hikes an annual tradition! It is exciting for Arkansas to be such a strong participant in this nationwide event occurring in all 50 state park systems. First Day Hikes are focused on healthy habits and lifelong memories.  

This year for First Day Hikes we will not offer guided hikes at any Arkansas State Park locations. However, we know the outdoors and healthy habits are more important than ever during this time, so we are encouraging self-guided walks and hikes on the "First Weekend," January 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.

(Note: A few park locations are closed on the Jan. 1 holiday but will be open for Jan. 2-3. Visit the online calendar for specific parks to find out more about each park’s detailed plans.)

 Hikers are encouraged to log their completed hikes and miles (that take place in State Parks on those days) at https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/first-day-hikes. We are excited to discover how many hikers cover how many miles in our State Parks that weekend! And, we will send a free Arkansas State Park hiking sticker to each person in your group!

 Please note, a number of State Parks have experienced high volumes of hikers on weekends since the onset of COVID-19. Please plan to recreate responsibly using the following reminders:

•  ·        When the parking lot is full, the park is full. We encourage you to consider planning your hikes on less-visited trails or off-peak times of day. Consider having a Plan B in place.  
• ·         Practice physical distancing. Keep 6’ distance from hikers who don’t live in your immediate household.
• ·         Have masks with you and be prepared to wear them if you need to enter a park facility.
• ·         Stay on designated trails. Shortcuts cause damage and are unsafe.
• ·         Practice Leave No Trace principles.

Delta Heritage Trail State Park is open daily from sunrise to one hour after sunset for hiking and cycling. The trail runs on a former rail line that features crushed gravel except for the sections between the Rohwer and Arkansas City trailheads where it runs on a paved road that is also open to vehicle traffic. Please note the visitor center located at Barton will be closed on Friday, January 1st and open from 1-5 p.m. on Saturday, January 2nd and Sunday, January 3rd with a limited number of bikes available for rent. The trail itself will still be open for use on Friday, January 1st. Please contact the park for details on bike rentals at (870) 572-2352. Bikers are also encouraged to log their miles at  https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/first-day-hikes and are eligible to receive a free hiking sticker. Numerous trailheads are available with parking and their locations and distances shown here: Delta Heritage Trail Map

#FirstDayHikes
#ARStateParks