Nehalem, OR -- For the seventh year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day. Information about the special hike hosted at Oswald West State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/OswaldWestFDH2018 . Online registration is new this year--although not required--and will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time: 10 a.m.
Starting location: Oswald West Shop
Terrain and length of trail: Easy, one-mile hike. We recommend the hike for children at least 8 years old. Terrain is not suitable for child strollers. Dogs permitted on 6-foot leash.
Contact information: (503) 368-5943
Additional details: Hike up to Kramer Memorial overlooking Short Sand Beach. Learn about Matt Kramer, a reporter for the Associated Press who used his talent with words to help win the day for Oregonians.

Participants should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes, and bring water as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Share photos of First Day Hikes via Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes or tagging "Oregon State Parks" on Facebook.