At a Glance
- Texas leads the nation in New Year’s First Day Hikes, drawing thousands to state parks.
- Dinosaur Valley State Park marks its 10th Dino Dive, inviting visitors to plunge into the Paluxy River beside dinosaur tracks.
- Participants can earn an anniversary medal and support park projects.
- Why it matters: It offers a fresh start and outdoor adventure for Texans, while boosting park funding.
New Year’s Day is shaping up to be a day of outdoor adventure across Texas. The state’s First Day Hikes program invites residents to explore parks, while Dinosaur Valley State Park celebrates its 10th Dino Dive with a chilly river plunge. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious newcomer, the day offers something for everyone.
First Day Hikes: A Nationwide Tradition
Texas State Parks hosts the First Day Hikes program, encouraging people of all ages and skill levels to experience the beauty of Texas nature through ranger walks, bike rides, paddling trips, and polar plunges. The event is a national tradition that draws thousands each January 1.
Rodney Franklin said:
> “Each year, Texas leads the nation as thousands of Texans turn out to a nearby state park to ring in the new year and celebrate with a First Day Hike. I always look forward to seeing the photos of smiling folks enjoying parks on January 1, and this New Year’s Day is extra special as we also ring in America’s 250th birthday. Hope to see you on the trail!”
- Ranger walks
- Self-guided walks
- Bike rides
- Paddling trips
- Polar plunges
- Water
- Salty snacks
- Proper shoes
- Appropriate clothing
- Day passes recommended in advance, as the first day is the park’s busiest day.
- Trail maps for all Texas State Parks can be found on TPWD’s website.
Dinosaur Valley’s 10th Dino Dive: Jump into History
Dinosaur Valley State Park is hosting its 10th annual Dino Dive, a cold plunge into the Paluxy River at 2 p.m. The event offers a unique experience next to dinosaur tracks from the past.
Laney Kohout said:
> “It is a little cold, but it’s an experience like no other, because you are jumping into the new year right next to dinosaur tracks of the past,”
Laney Kohout added:
> “By supporting the park on this day, you’re not just coming out to dinosaur valley for the new year. You are helping us fund our projects and support our park for the rest of the year,”
> “So we truly appreciate everybody who comes out, who participates and who spends the first day of 2026 with us.”
- Earn an anniversary medal by signing up at the event.
- Day passes recommended in advance, as the first day is the busiest day.
- Trail maps are available on TPWD’s website.
- Bring water, salty snacks, proper shoes, and appropriate clothing for the plunge.
- A full list of First Day Hike events can be found here.
Key Takeaways
- Texas leads the nation in First Day Hikes, drawing thousands of participants.
- Dinosaur Valley’s 10th Dino Dive offers a cold plunge beside ancient dinosaur tracks.
- Participants can earn an anniversary medal and help fund park projects.
Whether you’re looking to start the year with a brisk swim or a scenic hike, Texas’s First Day Hikes and Dinosaur Valley’s Dino Dive promise a memorable start to 2026.
