Banks 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 Banks-Vernonia State Trail is below.

Hikers can register for the hike at the Oregon State Parks Store, http://bit.ly/B-VTrailFDH2018 . 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: 9 a.m.
Starting location: Buxton Trailhead
Terrain and length of trail: Moderate, two miles
Contact information:(503) 324-0606
Additional details: The hike crosses the Buxton trestle. See expansive views of the Oregon Coast Range and northwest native plants in Douglas fir stands.

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.