Louisiana state parks will start the new year with hiking events. Here's how to get involved

Facebook Twitter WhatsApp SMS Email Print Copy article link Save Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser invites individuals and families to go out and explore Louisiana's state parks in conjunction with America’s State Parks’ First Day Hikes Project .

This project helps people become more connected to the outdoors and hiking for good health. Among participating local parks near Shreveport-Bossier are Mansfield State Historic Site and North Toledo Bend State Park. Mansfield State Historic Site First Day Guided Hike event will be on Jan.



4 at 10 a.m. Admission and entry fees is $4 per person.

Children 3 and under and seniors 62 and older will have free admission. North Toledo Bend State will host their First Day Guided Hike on Jan. 1.

They will have a self guided hike for the park's Trail A and Trail B. Admission will be $3 per person and free for children under 3 and seniors 62 and older. For those who are seeking more of a challenge, there will be a ranger-guided hike at Poverty Point World Heritage Site where hikers can walk to the top of Mound A and also explore the earth works and nature found in the park.

Hikers can enjoy one of two ranger-led hikes at Forts Randolph-Buhlow State Historic Site or explore the Bogue Chitto State Park Gorge Trail on a ranger-led hike on New Year’s Day as well. According to the Louisiana State Parks press release, These events are part of a wider initiative of “First Day Hikes” held by state parks around the country. First Day Hikes began more than three decades ago, at the Blue Hills Reservation state park in Massachusetts in 1992.

Since 2012, all 50 states have participated. “Let’s all make a resolution to get healthier in the new year, and start getting those steps in from day one with a First Day Hike through one of our Louisiana state parks or historic sites,” Nungesser said in a news release. All hiking events are listed on the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage.

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