The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks on New Year's Day,
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks on New Year's Day, Sunday, Jan. 1. The $5 day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open. Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes. First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012. Information about the hike hosted at Smith Rock State Park is below: The 3-mile hike begins along the rim of the canyon with fantastic views of the rock walls and the Crooked River meandering below. When the hike drops into the canyon, look for a nesting bald eagle pair. Hikers could also see rock climbers on the wall along the Canyon Trail and, with luck, a golden eagle may be surveying the nesting gr