Join other outdoor enthusiast on these New Year celebratory First Day Hikes to start the year off right!  State Parks celebrate the new year with a “free day” where a Discover Pass is not required to visit the state parks when it otherwise would be. Details here…

First Day Hike Options: 

Cama Beach State Park from 9:00-10:30am
Meet at the drop-off shelter at Cama Beach to be lead by Interpretive Specialist, Meredith Peterson for a guided walk out to Cranberry Lake. This gentle 2.5 mile trail leads you through the forest to a marsh ecosystem, where there is an active beaver lodge and signs of their activity along the way. Enjoy hot drinks and snacks at the drop off shelter before the hike begins.

Beginner Hiking level for all ages. Be prepared for some rocks and roots on the trail with some up and downs in the terrain. Leashed dogs are allowed
More information
See a video of the trail here…

Camano Island State Park from 1:00 – 2:30pm
Join the Interpretive Specialist, Meredith Peterson, and other park staff for a walk along the Howard Adams Trail for the first hike of the year. This gentle 2.5 mile trail leads you through the forest, where we will set our intentions for the new year and enjoy time spent outside. Enjoy hot drinks and snacks at the drop off shelter before the hike begins.

Meet at the restrooms near the group campground
Beginner-Friendly but be prepared for some rocks and roots on the trail with some up and downs in the terrain.
Leashed dogs are allowed
More information

Deception Pass State Park 8:30am
Kick off 2026 at Deception Pass State Park and help plant trees at Pass Lake!

Instead of the traditional First Day Hike, consider planting trees in the fields along the shoreline of Pass Lake. Historically, these areas were used for hay production, but in recent years, this practice has ceased due to the growth of buttercups and daisies. The goal is to create a mixed conifer forest around Pass Lake, with the aim of revegetating 19.5 acres of the former hay fields surrounding the lake.

There are two groups 9:00am – 12:30pm and 1:00-4:30pm

The event will begin at 8:30 AM, with the first planting group starting at 9:00 AM. Please note that you must register on Eventbrite!(REGISTER FOR FREE HERE) Each ticket is valid for one car and includes all participants within. To accommodate everyone, we encourage carpooling, as parking will be limited to 50 cars per planting group. It is recommend to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes, as the restoration site requires a 0.7-mile walk to access and may be wet. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided; however, participants should bring their own gloves. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as the event will take place rain or shine.
Registration required
More information

 Dates:

1 January 2026

Time: 

9:00 AM to 4:30 PM