Free First Day Hike At The Cove Palisades State Park Jan. 1, 2026
- 12/18/25
CULVER, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at The Cove Palisades State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.
It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.
Information about the hike hosted at The Cove Palisades State Park is below:
- Join a park ranger for a beautiful 2-mile hike through the Crooked River Wetlands, then continue up the Rim Trail where you will be treated to stunning views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Along the way, we’ll discuss some of The Cove’s fascinating geological history and keep an eye out for any winter wildlife. Refreshments will be served at the overlook.
- The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet at the top of the hill and turn into the Crooked River Campground overflow parking lot. Look for signs.
- The hike may not be suitable for people with breathing difficulties, trouble with uneven terrain or with strollers. Restrooms will be located in the parking lot and in the camp only.
- Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes.
- Participants are encouraged to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots that can handle getting wet. It is important to bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Some visitors may also find it helpful to bring a walking stick or pole if there is snow. Additionally, sunglasses may be advisable.
- For more information, call 541-546-3412.
If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Erin Bennet, 541-977-5759. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.
All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.
Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.
First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.
# # #
Free First Day Hike At The Cove Palisades State Park Jan. 1, 2026
- 12/18/25
CULVER, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is hosting a free guided First Day Hike at The Cove Palisades State Park on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1.
It's part of the annual First Day Hikes event at 25 Oregon State Parks held in partnership with America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.
Information about the hike hosted at The Cove Palisades State Park is below:
- Join a park ranger for a beautiful 2-mile hike through the Crooked River Wetlands, then continue up the Rim Trail where you will be treated to stunning views of Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters. Along the way, we’ll discuss some of The Cove’s fascinating geological history and keep an eye out for any winter wildlife. Refreshments will be served at the overlook.
- The hike starts at 10 a.m. Meet at the top of the hill and turn into the Crooked River Campground overflow parking lot. Look for signs.
- The hike may not be suitable for people with breathing difficulties, trouble with uneven terrain or with strollers. Restrooms will be located in the parking lot and in the camp only.
- Friendly dogs are always welcome on six-foot leashes.
- Participants are encouraged to dress in layers and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots that can handle getting wet. It is important to bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing. Some visitors may also find it helpful to bring a walking stick or pole if there is snow. Additionally, sunglasses may be advisable.
- For more information, call 541-546-3412.
If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Erin Bennet, 541-977-5759. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.
All activities are free, but a day-use parking permit is required. Permits cost $10 per day for Oregon Residents or $12 for non-residents; annual permits are also sold at the park.
Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.
First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.
# # #
