Tillamook OR – For the eighth 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 Cape Lookout 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/ParkStoreEvents . This year’s hike is limited to 50 participants. Registering – although not required -- will help park staff plan for the hike and provide them with participant contact information should hike details change.

Hike time:                              Noon

Starting location:                   Cape Lookout trailhead parking lot

Terrain and length of trail:     Moderate, five-mile hike. Trail may be muddy.      

Contact information:             (503) 842-3182

Additional details:                  One of the most scenic hikes on the Oregon Coast with views of the shoreline north and south. This is one of the best times for whale watching from the end of the cape. Hike recommended for children six years and older. Baby strollers are not recommended. Dogs must be on a six-foot leash.

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.