- Foundation News
- Visitors Created Unforgettable Memories at First Day Hikes This Year
Visitors Have "Magical" Experiences on New Year's Day
Magical, delightful, and enchanting. These are all adjectives park rangers and volunteers used to describe visitor experiences at First Day Hikes this year.
“The whole experience was amazing,” said Lorena Medina-Dirksen, a ranger who led a beginner-level snowshoe hike at Lake Easton. “Two special moments were when I recognized two ladies from last year’s First Day hike, they drove from Federal Way again, it was amazing seeing them back.”
“The other memorable moment is when everyone participated in a ‘collective poetry’ activity that I asked for,” Medina-Dirksen shared. “At the end of the hike everyone participated which was, as well, amazing.”
Lake Easton is one of the 39 state parks that hosted free, ranger-led hikes on New Year’s Day this year. 1,809 participants got dressed in their warmest gear and grabbed their loved ones to participate. From snowshoeing at Mt. Spokane to polar plunges at Lake Sammamish, visitors rang in the new year with a healthy dose of adventure and good company.
Thanks to donor support, the Washington State Parks Foundation provided snacks and hot cocoa to refresh hungry hikers. This fan favorite makes First Day Hikes a welcoming experience that participants are sure to remember.
“The snacks were well welcome at the end of the hike,” Margie Parker, President of Friends of Whidbey State Parks said. “Thanks to Washington State Parks Foundation and Leslie for getting everything ready, and Park Steward Ann for serving (plus a hiker who helped out).”
New Year’s Day is one of the 12 Washington State Park Free Days offered in 2025. These free days, which mean you don’t need a Discover Pass to park, help ensure equitable access to outdoor recreation on state lands.
The memories created and stories shared at this year’s First Day Hikes were special for many participants. Ranger-led hikes offer the bonus of learning about state park history and environments.
“Our hike led us to a bald eagles nest!” Spencer Spit Ranger Mehgan Alexandra said. “Since it was a smaller turnout than previous years, I got to share a lot about Spencer Spit history, pointed out where old homestead locations were, and the history of the development of the park. Visitors had so many questions and it was awesome to have the space to connect about it all!”
At Fort Worden’s hike, a pup proudly sported his BARK Ranger bandana. BARK Rangers follow important principles that help keep state parks clean and safe, such as staying leashed and respecting wildlife. This dog got his Ranger bandana at Fort Worden’s First Day Hike two years ago, and returned this year for more fun!
These impactful events wouldn’t have been possible without the many rangers, park staff, and volunteers who hosted 2025 First Day Hikes. The Washington State Parks Foundation also thanks our donors for making snacks possible this year. Until next New Year, visitors can look forward to enjoying other guided hikes and programming throughout Washington State Parks.


