High Five 2025 with a First Day Hike at a Texas State Park

Strive to explore more in 2025 by starting the new year with a First Day Hike at a Texas State Park.

This annual tradition allows people of all ages and skill levels a chance to experience Texas’ wild places through ranger and self-guided walks, bike rides, paddling trips, polar plunges and more in honor of the national initiative aimed at getting people outdoors.

Last year, Texas broke not only its historical participation numbers, but it also had the most events, participants and miles hiked of any state.

Texas State Parks hosted 177 events where 8,729 people hiked, biked, swam and paddled a record 17,284 miles. The previous statewide record was set Jan. 1, 2023, during Texas State Parks’ Centennial Celebration.

“One of the many reasons that I love Texas is the nice weather that we can have even in the winter and there is no better way to spend a beautiful winter day than walking with friends and family at a Texas State Park,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks.

Trails at Texas State Parks range in length and difficulty. Some short, easy trails are perfect for family-friendly scenic strolls, while more strenuous ones can challenge experienced hikers. Trail maps for all Texas State Parks can be found on TPWD’s website, the recently redesigned official Texas State Park app and individual park webpages.

TPWD strongly encourages anyone planning a trip to a Texas state park to reserve a day pass in advance since some parks are expected to reach their capacity limit. Reserve day passes online through the TPWD reservation website or by calling the Customer Service Center during regular business hours at (512) 389-8900.

Anyone with the resolution of visiting multiple state parks in 2025 can purchase a Texas State Parks Pass (TSPP). The $70 TSPP waives entrance fees to all state parks for pass holders and guests in their vehicle for a full year. Additionally, pass holders get discounts on overnight reservations, state park store purchases and more.

Beginning Jan. 1, people who renew or purchase a new TSPP will receive an exclusive, limited-run decal to help display their love of Texas state parks. Purchase passes online through the TPWD reservation website, through the Customer Service Center or at any state park. Decals will be mailed with the pass.