First Day Hike

Location of Sweet Run State Park in Virginia

Where

Sweet Run State Park, 11661 Harpers Ferry Road, Hillsboro, VA 20132.
main parking lot, near pollinator garden.

When

Jan. 1, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Sweet Run’s 11 miles of hiking trails will be open for you to enjoy on your own or with us on one of our two naturalist-led hikes.

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Hike to Gordon Pond

This moderately-paced hike will be approximately 5 miles on a variety of beautiful trails with varied terrain. There will be stops along the way, including at Gordon Pond to pause and experience the beauty of the park in its natural winter environment. It may not take the full 3 hours, but we want to plan for a nice, comfortable pace. This hike is not suitable for wheelchairs, nor strollers. Registrations are required for this hike as we are limiting this first day hike to 15. Meet at the Interpretive Center at 9:45 a.m. Register HERE.

2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Family Friendly Hike around Mountain View Trail

This family friendly, slow-paced hike will take us past Wortman Pond, up to the top of Mountain View Trail, where it earned its name. This hike is approximately 1 mile, on uneven terrain, and a slight incline. Along the way we will look for plants and animals, and talk about what they are doing to survive the winter. Meet at the Interpretive Center at 1:45 p.m. No registration required.

Please be prepared for weather by dressing in layers. Water and sturdy shoes are recommended and binoculars are encouraged. The Interpretive Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with warm beverages (feel free to bring your own reusable mug) and hands-on activities. Depending on trail conditions, substitute trails may be selected for either hike.

About First Day Hikes

Every year on Jan. 1, Virginia State Parks celebrates First Day Hikes. This nationwide initiative invites people to ring in the new year by connecting with nature and making lasting memories at a state park. Ranger-led and self-guided First Day Hikes are offered across the state, giving visitors of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore outdoors. January 1 is a Free Parking Day at all Virginia State Parks. (The admission fee at Natural Bridge still applies).

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-668-6230
Email Address: sweetrun@dcr.virginia.gov