Gold Hill 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 hike and bike ride hosted at Champoeg State Heritage Area is below.

Hikers can register for the hike and bike ride at the Oregon State Parks Store from the links below. 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.

Bike ride time: 11 a.m.
Starting location: Rogue River Bridge at John F. Fleming Veterans Memorial Park. Register at http://bit.ly/VORoguebike2018
Terrain and length of trail: Easy five-mile bike ride on the Greenway Trail.
Contact information: 541-582-1118
Additional details: Bring your own bicycle or borrow from us. We have a limited number of adult and kids bikes available. See http://bit.ly/VORoguebike2018 for more information on reserving a bike. Ride recommended for children at least 7 years old. No dogs allowed on the bicycle ride.

Hike time: 1 p.m.
Starting location: Valley of the Rogue program area. Register at http://bit.ly/VORogueFDH2018
Terrain and length of trail: Easy one-mile hike on the Rivers Edge Trail.
Contact information: 541-582-1118
Additional details: Hike along the Rogue River and hear about the area's wildlife, cultural and historical events. Dogs permitted on 6-foot leash.

Participants should bring water, snacks, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

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