Salem 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 State Capitol State Park is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/StateCapitolFDH2018 . 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: Capitol Steps
Terrain and length of trail: Easy one-mile hike through Wilson Park and Capitol Park. We recommend this hike for children at least 6 years old. No dogs allowed.
Contact information: (503) 393-1172
Additional details: Stroll through the beautiful Capitol grounds and learn how the art, architecture and botany of the park tell the story of Oregon.

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.