First Day Hike

Welcome the New Year with a fresh start and a hike at Hungry Mother State Park! With 18 miles of scenic trails to explore, January is a great time to get outside, enjoy the winter landscape, and make hiking part of your New Year’s goals. Stop by one of our trail kiosks to choose a route that fits your desired level of difficulty, then set out to explore. You can participate in a guided hike with us or create your own adventure on the trails. Before you head home, be sure to visit the Discovery Center to pick up your First Day Hike sticker.

10 a.m. - Molly's Knob Guided Hike: Begin the New Year outdoors at Hungry Mother State Park. Join us for a winter morning on the trails, where the cool air and peaceful surroundings offer the perfect way to start 2027. Along the way, learn more about the park’s rich history while taking in the scenic views and natural beauty that surround you. Dress warmly and wear sturdy hiking shoes. This hike takes you up the knob through a secluded, striking portion of the forest and ends at the highest point in the park with a stunning view of the ridgeline. This trail is 1.9 miles of gradually increasing elevation across many switchbacks on a narrowing path that ends at a vista. Make sure to bring water and a snack along with your camera.

First Day Hike: Self-guided: Unable to make it to our guided hike on Molly’s Knob? No problem. You can still make the most of your first hike of the year by exploring at your own pace. Stop by the kiosk near the beach along the Lake Loop Trail to grab a self-guided hiking brochure. This brochure is created specifically for the Lake Loop and features fun trivia and interactive information tied to the sights you’ll encounter along the way, making your hike both entertaining and educational.

Dirty Snow Boot Scavenger Hunt: If you are looking for a fun activity to add to your first hike of the year, give this scavenger hunt a go. Try your luck at finding various animals, tracks and even items they have used. Pick up a brochure at the kiosk at the spillway just below the dam.

About First Day Hikes

Every year on Jan. 1, Virginia State Parks celebrates First Day Hikes. This nationwide initiative invites people to ring in the new year by connecting with nature and making lasting memories at a state park. Ranger-led and self-guided First Day Hikes are offered across the state, giving visitors of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore outdoors. January 1 is a Free Parking Day at all Virginia State Parks. (The admission fee at Natural Bridge still applies).  

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