Find out which New Mexico State Parks are offering First Day Hikes

On the first day of 2026, several New Mexico State Parks are kicking off the New Year with First Day Hikes.

So whether your New Year’s resolution is to get moving, or you just want to embrace all the state has to offer this year, here is a list of all the places to take that first step.

Brantley Lake State Park

This ranger led hike will explore the vegetation, terrain and history of Brantley Lake.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Regular fees waived

Cerrillos Hills State Park

The 14th annual Cerrillos Hills State Park First Day Hike will feature a trivia contest this year. Leashed dogs are welcome. The route will cover 1.5 or 3 miles, depending on the hiker.

WHEN: 1-3 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Regular fees waived

Elephant Butte Lake State Park

Hikers have the choice of two distances for this First Day Hike — walk north at the Dirt Dam parking lot for a 3-mile round trip, or go south from the dam overlook for a half-mile round trip.

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: The walk is free for N.M. residents and regular park entrance fees apply for out of state residents; exact cash or check only, or valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass

Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park

Hikers can see over 40 different animal species and over 100 types of plants native to the Chihuahuan Desert, hiking a 1.3-mile trail that loops around the zoo.

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Free

Oliver Lee Memorial State Park

A trip to Lawson Springs will take hikers out of the flats and to a moderate climb at the base of the Sacramento Mountains. Park at the visitor center and walk to site 36. Participating children must be 8 years old and leashed pets are allowed. The park advises hikers to bring plenty of water.

WHEN: 10-11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Fees waived

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

Enjoy the sights of the Rio Grande Nature Center with a pair of binoculars, or borrow some from the center, during this almost 1-mile hike.

WHEN: 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Regular entrance fees

Sugarite Canyon State Park

Hikers will be circling Lake Maloya, stopping for s’mores and hot cocoa, during this brisk 5-mile hike. The park advises participants bring a sack lunch.

WHEN: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Regular entrance fees

Sumner Lake State Park

The hike along the Sumner Lake State Park Discovery Trail will start from the visitor center, and a guide will discuss native plants, wildlife, and insects, along with the park’s history.

WHEN: 1-2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: The hike is free for N.M. residents and regular park entrance fees apply for out of state residents; exact cash or check only, or valid New Mexico State Parks annual pass

Eagle Nest Lake State Park

For those who don’t want to take the plunge, Eagle Nest Lake is holding a Polar Stomp in conjunction with its Polar Plunge.

WHEN: 1 p.m. hike start, Thursday, Jan. 1

HOW MUCH: Regular fees apply; Free to all N.M. residents and $10 per vehicle for nonresidents