Hit the trail Jan. 1 on one of SC’s First Day Hikes

Some of the most popular New Year’s resolutions include exercising and spending more time outdoors, and several Columbia-area parks are offering an opportunity to do both the first day of 2016.

First Day Hikes, part of a national initiative each Jan. 1, encourages people to ring in the new year by leading active, healthier lives.

“Traditionally, New Year’s Day is a time to recharge and restart, and we’re happy to offer ideal settings for people to do that,” said Duane Parrish, director of the S.C. Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. “The trails and pathways in state parks are some of the most naturally scenic and historically significant in the state.”

Participating parks – both in Columbia and around the state – will have ranger-guided hikes that help visitors learn about the cultural and natural heritage as they walk. Most hikes around the area are considered easy, and many are free with park admission.

Among Columbia-area parks offering First Day Hikes on Friday, Jan. 1:

Congaree National Park

The state’s only national park is joining state parks by offering two “Owl Prowl” hikes, one at 4:30 p.m. and another at 5 p.m. The hikes will allow participants to explore the floodplain forest and its animals, including the barred owl, from the park’s boardwalk trail. Hikes start at the park’s visitors center. Reservations are required at www.eventbrite.com, with the event name “1st Day Owl Prowl.”

Dreher Island State Park

The park is offering an easy 2.5-mile hike at Little Gap Trail from 10 a.m. to noon. Hikers can meet in the parking lot at shelters 7 and 8. The park asks hikers to bring water, snacks, cameras, binoculars and walking shoes.

Sesquicentennial State Park

Sesqui is the site of a 2-mile guided hike at 1 and 3 p.m. on the Sandhills Hiking Trail, and an easier half-mile nature walk at 3:30 p.m. The hike is for all ages, and the 2-mile trail is stroller friendly. Adults must accompany children ages 15 and younger. The Sandhills Hiking Trail circles a 30-acre lake. Preregistration is required by calling (803) 788-2706 or emailing sesqui@scprt.com. Participants are asked to wear outdoor clothing and bring water, cameras and binoculars.

Poinsett State Park

This park, not too far from Sumter, is hosting an easy hike from 8-9:30 a.m. on its Coquina Trail. The 2-mile trail circles around Old Levi Mill Lake, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps as part of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s New Deal. Participants can meet at the park office and should bring water and wear proper attire and comfortable hiking shoes.

This story was originally published December 29, 2015 at 4:00 PM.