Hike into The New Year: Montana's First Day Hikes Event

Put on your warm layers and lace up your hiking boots to kick off the New Year in Montana!

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is offering exciting opportunities to enjoy our winter wonderland with a "First Day Hike" at a state park near you. On January 1, FWP will host several group hikes at various state park locations. These hikes will be fun for the whole family and give you the chance to win prizes...

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What to Bring

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks encourages hikers to bring warm clothing, water, ice cleats, or snowshoes, depending on your park's trail conditions. Maybe throw some hot hand warmers and sunglasses into the mix as well.

How to Win Prizes

Prizes are being given out in the Northwest Montana event only, which is Region 1 State Parks, Flathead, and Mission Valleys.

To qualify for prizes... participants must take pictures of specific activities listed, pictures have to be captured on January 1st , and submitted by 6 pm January 3rd via email to wayfarers@mt.gov. Different activities have different points, and you can view the breakdown of other rules HERE.

Earn 1 Point for taking a picture of an animal and an extra point for proper identification!

If you want to rack up the big numbers... you can earn 10 points per person by wading into a lake at least ankle-deep.

credit: Canva

Prizes Include...

1st place - Two nights at either Big Arm Unit of FHLSP yurt or Finley Point Unit of FHLSP cabin
2nd place - Two nights of camping at Logan State Park or Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park
3rd place - $40 at either Lone Pine State Park or Flathead Lake Ranger Station gift shop

All Around America

This marks the 10th Annual "First Day Hike" event, celebrated in all 50 states. Hikers are invited to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #FirstDayHikes. There's no better way to start the New Year than enjoying the outdoors and possibly winning some prizes at the same time!

Credit: FWP.MT

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Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf

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Gallery Credit: Derek Wolf