Dec. 26, 2025, 10:40 a.m. MT
New Mexicans are invited to start 2026 with outdoor adventure, fresh air and perhaps a bracing dip.
New Mexico State Parks will host First Day Hikes and Polar Plunges across its 35 parks on Jan. 1, 2026. The annual events are part of a nationwide tradition encouraging people to begin the year with movement and time outdoors.
“New Mexico’s landscapes inspire resilience and adventure, and there’s no better way to begin the year than by experiencing them firsthand,” Toby Velásquez, New Mexico State Parks director, said in the announcement.
Where to hike and take a polar plunge in New Mexico on New Year’s Day 2026
Guided hikes and Polar Plunges are planned at several state parks, with options suitable for a wide range of abilities. Knowledgeable guides are expected to lead participants through scenic trails, sharing information about local wildlife, habitats and history.
- Brantley Lake 11 a.m. to noon: First Day Hike
- Cerrillos Hills 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.: First Day Hike
- Eagle Nest Lake noon to 3 p.m.: Polar Plunge and Polar Stomp
- Elephant Butte Lake 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: First Day Hike
- Living Desert 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.: First Day Hike
- Oliver Lee 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.: First Day Hikes
- Rio Grande Nature Center 10 a.m. to noon: New Year’s Day Nature Walk
- Storrie Lake 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Polar Bear Plunge
- Sugarite Canyon 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.: First Day Hike-Lakeside Snow Stomp
- Sumner Lake 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.: First Day Hike
Why First Day Hikes are a New Mexico New Year’s tradition
Outdoor recreation has long been part of life in New Mexico, where families have gathered on trails, lakes, and mesas for generations, according to the announcement. The tradition of starting the year outside reflects this shared connection to place, from desert foothills to alpine forests.
“These traditions remind us that our parks are more than destinations,” Velásquez said. “They’re part of who we are as New Mexicans, nuestra gente, nuestras familias, y nuestra historia. We invite everyone to join us, take care of these places and make new memories for the new year ahead.”
What to wear and bring for First Day Hikes and Polar Plunges
Participants are encouraged to dress in layers, bring water and prepare for winter conditions. For those planning to take a Polar Plunge, quick-dry clothing and a warm post-dip setup are recommended.
This story was created by reporter Andy Dossett, ADossett@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
