New Year's Hike & Soup Luncheon

Location of James River State Park in Virginia

Where

James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553.
Visitor Center

When

Jan. 1, 2026. 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Kick start the new year with a hike at James River State Park! First Day Hikes are part of a national initiative that encourages people to refresh and reset by getting outside on the first day of the year. We will be offering two guided hikes for you to pick from: for those passionate about history, a History Hike, and for the nature lovers, a Wetlands Hike.

On the History Hike, you will discover the rich history of James River State Park - from ancient fossils to the American Civil War. We'll stop at one of the park’s cemeteries along the way and finish at the Tye River Overlook. This is a moderate, approximately 1.8 mile round-trip hike.

On the Wetlands Hike, explore the park’s expansive wetlands with us as we search for and identify the plants and animals that call this unique habitat home. Bring a camera or binoculars for an up-close view of this diverse ecosystem. This is an easy, approximately 1.25 mile round-trip hike.

Enjoy a soup luncheon after your adventure, sponsored by the Friends of James River State Park!

This is a FREE parking day for all Virginia State Parks.

Please meet at the Visitor Center. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable footwear. Suitable for all ages. Parks are for everyone, please let us know if you need special accommodation.

For more information, please call (434) 942-3545 or email Tess.Himelspach@dcr.virginia.gov.

Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information here.

Ranger Campaign Hat on Frozen Lake

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: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-933-4355
Email Address: JamesRiver@dcr.virginia.gov