First Day Hikes

woman with back facing us walks forward along a wooded dirt trail. A First Day Hikes logo with JAN 1 appears in left hand corner.

Events  >

First Day Hikes

Sunday, January 1st

While Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park will be closed on New Year’s Day, Friends of Sutter’s Fort encourages you to participate in a First Day Hike. California State Parks will participate at parks across the state in this national-led effort that encourages individuals and families to experience the beautiful natural and cultural resources found in the outdoors with a seasoned guide so that they may be inspired to take advantage of these treasures throughout the year. To see a full list of First Day Hikes led by California State Parks, please visit their website. 

You can also utilize the public grounds at Sutter’s Fort SHP to take your own walk (dogs welcome on-leash).

Here are some First Day Hikes taking place in the greater Sacramento region:

  • Park: Auburn State Recreation Area
    Where: Quarry Trailhead.
    Time: 10 a.m.
    Contact: Joseph.Shanahan@parks.ca.gov or call (530) 745-2202.
  • Park: Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park
    Where: Maidu Trail. Meet at 9980 Greenback Lane, Folsom.
    Time: 8 a.m.
    Parking: At the Folsom Historic Powerhouse. The State Parks parking fee will be waived for registered First Day Hikers.
    Sign Up Here
  • Park: Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park
    Where: Meet inside Chaw Se Regional Indian Museum.
    Time: 10:30 a.m.
    Contact: Mike Hopper at Michael.Hopper@parks.ca.gov or call the Chaw Se Regional Indian Museum Phone at (209) 296-7488.
  • Park: Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
    Where: Hike one – Monument Trail and Monroe Ridge; hike two – Monument Trail.
    Ages: 9 years old or 4th grade and up
    Contact: Email Susan.Okey@parks.ca.gov or call the museum at (530) 622-3470.
  • Park: Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
    Where: Blue Oak Trail at McKenzie Point.
    Time: 9:30 a.m.
    Contact: Eduardo.gonzalez@parks.ca.gov or call (559) 822-2332.Park: Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area
  • Park: Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area
    Where: Yost Property. Directions are provided at the main entrance station with posted signage along the route to the parking area. Turn left after the entry kiosk and continue for one half mile until you reach a gravel road with an open green cattle gate on the left. The group and parking area will be visible.
    Time: 9:30 – 11 a.m.
    Contact:Prairie.city@parks.ca.gov or call (916) 985-1093.