Silverton 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 Silver Falls State Park is below. The usual $5 parking fee will be waived Jan. 1 only.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/SilverFallsFDH2018 . 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: South Falls Lodge porch
Terrain and length of trail: Moderate, three-mile hike on the Maple Ridge Trail and Canyon Trail. Due to terrain, child strollers are not recommended. Icy conditions are possible - dress appropriately. Dogs are not allowed on the trails.
Contact information: (503) 873-8681
Additional details: Enjoy winter views of our iconic waterfalls and learn about the seasonal park changes.

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.