SILVERTON, Ore. – Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host two free guided hikes at Silver Falls State Park on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, Jan. 1.
OPRD is partnering with America’s State Parks for free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year’s Day.
Information about the 9 a.m. hike and 11 a.m. hike at Silver Falls State Park is below:
- Join us as we explore the new North Rim Trail that opened in summer 2023. The hike is 1.5-miles, round trip through the forest. We’ll stop at the spectacular North Falls Viewpoint before our return trip.
- The theme for the 9 a.m. hike is Lichens of Silver Falls and visitors will get a chance to explore the amazing diversity of lichens found at the park. The theme for the 11 a.m. hike is Sense and Sensibility and will focus on using all of the senses during the hike and learning how to prepare for a trip in the outdoors.
- Meet at 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. at the North Canyon trailhead, near mile point 28 on Highway 214. The parking lot is 3 miles north of the South Falls day-use area. GPS directions may not be accurate for this location. When you arrive, look for “First Day Hike” signs leading you to the meeting point.
- The trail surface is compacted gravel, and the trail is 6 feet wide and has a 5% slope or less. Most mobility devices can navigate this trail.
- Leashed dogs are welcome.
- Participants in both hikes should dress in layers with rain gear and gloves, wear shoes appropriate for the activity and bring water and snacks, as well as a camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- For more information, call 503-689-5122.
If you have questions about access or to request any reasonable accommodations needed for your participation, please contact Park Ranger Matt Palmquist at 503-689-5122. Requests must be submitted at least three days prior to January 1.
The day-use parking fee is waived that day for all state parks that require a parking permit and are open.
Share photos of First Day Hikes via social media by using the hashtag #ORfirstdayhikes.
First Day Hikes is a national initiative to welcome the coming year in the outdoors, promote exercise and encourage connecting with nature. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has participated since 2012.
