First Day Hikes

Kick off the New Year by participating in First Day Hikes at Nebraska’s state parks. Nebraska’s annual First Day Hikes are a chance to explore trails, watch wildlife, snap photos and create a lifetime of memories. Each year, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission encourages park-goers to take a hike on Jan. 1 at a Nebraska state park, state historical park or state recreation area. Note: A 2025 state park permit is required to enter parks.

IMPORTANT: Programs may be altered due to weather and trail conditions. Check the state park’s website or social media page for cancellations/modified schedules if severe weather advisories are in the area.

Omaha area First Day Hikes

Platte River State Park: Meet at 9 a.m. at the Walter Scott Lodge next to the red tower and join our Park Naturalists for a hike to Stone Creek Falls. Following the hike, warm up by the fireplace with hot cocoa, coffee and donut holes.

Schramm Park SRA: Meet at the Schramm Education Center at 10:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day. Choose which hike works best for you: a short hike along our Catalpa Trail with flatter terrain, or a longer hike at Schramm Park SRA through the forested hills. Following the hike, we will have a winter art activity for kids.

Mahoney State Park: Meet at the newly renovated James Family Conservatory & Nature Center. Guided hikes will begin at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. We’ll have a warm campfire for gathering out front and free s’mores, while supplies last.

Louisville SRA: Meet near the parking lot by the entry kiosk/park office at 3 p.m. and we’ll explore the wooded trails along the Platte River while doing some winter birding. We will provide binoculars, bird books and share some birding basics.