First Day Hikes

Location of Pocahontas State Park in Virginia

Where

Pocahontas State Park, 10301 State Park Rd., Chesterfield, VA 23832.
Multiple Locations

When

Jan. 1, 2026. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

We are looking forward to starting off 2026 on the right foot with our series of First Day Hikes:

December 31, 2025
New Year's Eve Night Hike (11 p.m. - 1 a.m.): Hike in the new year. Moderate to advanced 2.3-mile hike. Not suitable for kids 10 and under. Reservations required.

January 1, 2026
Silent Sunrise Hike (6:45 a.m.): Start the new year off right by greeting the sun along the Beaver Lake Trail. Moderate trail around 2.5 miles in length. Meet at Visitor Center.

Facilities Open (9 a.m. - 4 p.m.): Explore the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum and Visitor Center. Self-guided activities are available.

Little Tyke Hike (9:45 a.m.): Stroller-friendly, less than one mile in length and suited for children 6 and under. Meet at Playground by Pool Parking Lot.

B.A.R.K. Ranger Hike (11:15 a.m.): Learn how you and your (leashed) pets can promote fun and safe visits to parks. Suitable for all ages and all leashed pets. Up to one mile in length over rooty terrain. Meet at Visitor Center

Co-op Hike (12 p.m.): Enjoy the Co-Op Trail while learning more about the park and looking signs of wildlife. Moderate 4 mile loop. Leashed pets welcome. Meet at Swift Creek Boat Launch.

Photo Hike (2:45 p.m.): Bring your camera and learn photography basics. Moderate 0.7-mile loop, not suitable for strollers. Meet at Visitor Center.

Swift Creek Dam Hike (3:45 p.m.): End your day with a history hike. Approximate one mile loop, strollers and leashed pets are welcome. Meet at Swift Creek Banquet Hall.

Call 804-796-4472 or email Rebecca.Whalen@dcr.virginia.gov for more information and New Year's Eve Night Hike registration.

First Day Hikes are sponsored by the Friends of Pocahontas State Park.

photo of a couple hiking along a park trail

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: No.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 804-796-4255
Email Address: Pocahontas@dcr.virginia.gov