Texas State Parks Break Records for First Day Hikes

Over 12,800 hikers covered more than 28,000 miles across 86 state parks on New Year's Day

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:15am

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For the fourth consecutive year, Texas State Parks set new records for First Day Hike participation, with 86 sites hosting 181 events where 12,835 participants hiked a combined 28,154 miles on January 1st. This represents significant increases from the previous year's totals, cementing Texas as the national leader in First Day Hike events and attendance.

Why it matters

The annual First Day Hike events are an important tradition that encourage Texans to get outdoors and explore the state's natural wonders at the start of the new year. The growing popularity of these events reflects the public's ongoing appreciation for the state's expansive park system and the benefits of spending time in nature.

The details

On New Year's Day, Texas State Parks hosted 181 First Day Hike events across 86 different sites, up from 175 events at 83 sites the previous year. The number of participants increased by over 3,000 to 12,835, and the total miles hiked grew by nearly 10,000 to 28,154. Texas outpaced the rest of the nation in terms of the number of sites, events, and participants for the fourth straight year.

  • The First Day Hike events took place on January 1, 2026.
  • Texas State Parks have broken participation records for the Fourth consecutive year.

The players

Rodney Franklin

Director of Texas State Parks

Dinosaur Valley State Park

The state park near Glen Rose that had the most participants with 931.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

The state park that had the second-highest number of participants with 861.

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What they’re saying

“Texas led the nation once again in First Day Hike participation. We had wonderful weather, and it was a great way to spend time with family in the outdoors at one of your Texas State Parks. So many Texans have made this event an annual tradition. I enjoyed the day at one of Texas' newest state parks, Palo Pinto Mountains, and joined the first wave of visitors as we explored the trails during the sneak peek event. I hope to see you on the trail next year!!”

— Rodney Franklin, Director of Texas State Parks (News release)

What’s next

Texas State Parks officials are already looking ahead to next year's First Day Hike events, hoping to continue the momentum and set new participation records.

The takeaway

The growing popularity of Texas's First Day Hike events underscores the state's commitment to providing accessible outdoor recreation opportunities and the public's enduring appreciation for the natural beauty of the state park system.