CHESAPEAKE, Va. — Dozens welcomed the new year by taking to the trails in Chesapeake's parks as part of a national initiative coined First Day Hikes.
On Monday, Chesapeake Parks, Recreation & Tourism led three First Day Hikes around Chesapeake in an effort to get people outdoors. The hikes were at Battlefield Park, Northwest River Park, and Indian River Park.
Kate Vanderpool, an outdoor and environmental recreation specialist, helped guide hikers on the Northwest River Park trail.
"The goal is to just get people outside for the first day, get our parks out there for people that might not necessarily see them in their day-to-day life," said Vanderpool. "I've always been really passionate about hiking, kayaking, canoeing, things like that. I'm loving spreading that passion among other people."
Nearly 40 people came out to enjoy the outdoors in Chesapeake.
This wasn't Billy Simmons' first time joining a First Day Hike or the specific trail but he told 13News Now he enjoys kickstarting the year out in nature.
"I've done it several times to different parks and everything and really enjoyed it," Simmons explained. "I got family members that are doing it and friends that are doing it and everything. So, we all just decided to get together and do it here."
Following Monday's "great turnout," Vanderpool said she's already gearing up for the First Day Hikes of 2025.
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"I've heard from a lot of people who have expressed interest in doing this again in the future, so I'm hoping to bring this back next year," she said.
America's State Parks launched First Day Hikes to encourage people to exercise and connect with nature. Since its inception, the event has become a tradition for many.
The organization has an interactive map and list of the parks participating in each state on its website.