First Day Hikes at Sky Meadows

Where

Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144. Various Locations.

When

January 1, 2021. 5:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

While the American tradition of celebrating the New Year occurs at midnight on New Year's Eve, other cultures celebrate by enjoying sunrise on New Year's Day. As part of the continuing American experience of sharing our vast cultural traditions, we will open our main gates (on Edmonds Lane) at 5:30 a.m. Enjoy your own hike from the Backcountry Trailhead to enjoy sunrise at one of the overlooks on the Piedmont Overlook Trail, South Ridge Trail or the Ambassador Whitehouse Trail.

Choose from 2 self-guided hike options to explore the landscape. Discover Victorian Era calling cards or Roman Janus coins to learn about past New Year traditions and their connections to nature. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, and bring water for the hike. Approximate length of each hike is 2 miles. Picnic Area, Lost Mountain and Turner Pond areas will open at 8 a.m.

Facemasks required where social distancing is not possible, including hiking trails. Group sizes limited to a maximum of 10 per Governor's Executive Order.

Download hike information and statewide contest details here: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/firstdayhikes