Start of 2025 with a Hike!

Kick off the new year with some fresh air and family fun on a New Year’s Day hike!

HERE ARE THREE IDEAS:

1) New Year’s Day Hike at Fort Yargo State Park (in Winder)

“Join us for one of our “First Day” Hikes to ring in the New Year.”

Hike # 1 is a fully accessible hike on the Wilkins Greenway trail. This hike is easy and is suitable for young children and pets. Meet at Visitor Center at 10:15am. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring water/snack. Hike will last approximately 1.5 hours.————

Hike # 2 is a moderate 2-3 mile hike on the wooded trails. This hike is not suitable for young children and pets. Meet at Area B boat ramp at 12:45pm. Please wear comfortable shoes and bring water/snack. Hike will last approximately 2 hours.

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Admission: $3/person, register in advance at park office
Parking fee: $5
Event Phone: 770-867-3489
Please call the Visitor Center to preregister, space is limited.

When: January 1, 2025
Times: 10-11:30am OR 1-2:30pm

Location: Fort Yargo State Park, 210 South Broad Street, Winder, GA 30680 (Barrow County) – (770-867-3489)
(Note: Fort Yargo is 18 miles East of downtown Lawrenceville – est. 30 minutes with no traffic)
Event Link

2) First Day Hike at Don Carter State Park (in Gainesville)

Join a ranger on the Huckleberry Trail for our First Day Hike! $3.00 per person
Please call the Visitor Center to preregister.

Admission: $3
Parking fee: $5
Event Phone: 678-450-7726

When: Wednesday, January 1, 2025 (9am-10am)
Location: Don Carter State Park, 5000 North Browning Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30506 (about 32 miles NE of Buford’s Mall of Georgia – about 50+ minutes with no traffic)
Event Link

3) Plan Your Own New Year’s Day Hike!

Walk around your neighborhood or Find a Local Trail. Tons of great options for all ages:

GWINNETT PARKS

GWINNETT SIGNATURE TRAILS

GEORGIA STATE PARKS

Here are some additional tips:

+ Dress for the Weather: It’s looking like a cool day with highs around 50°F—bundle up and wear layers to stay comfy. If you go early, don’t forget hats and gloves for the kids!

+ Pack the Basics: Grab water, snacks, a small first-aid kit, and a charged phone for emergencies.

+ Make It Fun: Look for cool wildlife, take silly photos, or turn it into a scavenger hunt.