Florida State Parks are hosting a series of hikes on the first of January 2024. They want to help individuals, friends, and families start the new year off with a breath of fresh air. The walks are free with state park admission and are guided by rangers. Guests are encouraged to wear sensible shoes and bring binoculars, water, camera, bug spray, and sunscreen.
- Anastasia State Park (Jan. 1, St. Augustine): Guided 2-mile hike on two of Anastasia’s iconic trails: the Marsh Trail and the Ancient Dunes Trail.
- Ruth B. Kirby Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park (Jan. 1, High Springs): A guided mile-long hike that educates on the importance of natural springs.
- St. Andrews State Park (Jan. 1, Panama City Beach): Guided mile-long hike along the park’s Heron Pond Trail that includes a discussion on the park’s natural plants and wildlife.
- Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park (Jan. 1, Pensacola): Guided, leisurely mile-long hike along the ADA-accessible Tarkiln Bayou Trail that includes a discussion of the park’s native plants.
- T.H. Stone Memorial St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (Jan. 1, Port Saint Joe): Guided 1.6-mile loop hike with views of St. Joseph Bay through the park’s various terrain.
- William J. “Billy Joe” Rish Recreation Area (Jan. 1, Port Saint Joe): Rather than a walk, the Rish Recreation Area would like to invite you to enjoy the first sunset of 2024 on the beach. Bring a chair, blanket, or towel. There will be games of cornhole, bocce ball, and more available for entertainment.