Florida State Parks Host First Day Hike Jan. 1

FLORIDA — Floridians can start 2022 off in a positive way surrounded by nature and getting exercise with a walk at one of our 175 state parks on First Day Hike, according to Florida authorities.

First Day Hike is organized in state parks across the country where many people participate in hikes every Jan. 1, Florida State Park website reported. "Varying from short strolls to longer treks, these hikes offer a variety of ways for people to get outdoors and start the new year on the right foot," park officials said.

Ranger-guided hikes are offered at some state parks. You don't have to follow a guide if you want to hike on your own First Day Hike alone or with just friends and family. Maps are available at ranger stations, and you can download one from each park's website.

If hiking isn't your thing, biking is another way you can be active and see the trails—both dirt and paved. Horseback riding is allowed on some trails. Rivers, lakes and bays are at state parks that allow kayaking, paddleboarding, boating and fishing.

If getting in shape and becoming healthier is in your 2022 future, hiking provides the following benefits, according to Webmd.com:

• Lower your risk of heart disease.
• Improve your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
• Boost bone density, since walking is a weight-bearing exercise.
• Build strength in your glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs.
• Strengthen the core.
• Improve balance.
• Help control your weight.
• Boost your mood.

Before you head out onto the Florida trails, here are some guidelines provided by Florida State Parks:

• Be courteous and observe trail etiquette. Communicate with others as you pass
• Stay on the trail. Wandering off the trail can cause erosion and you could be injured or become lost.
• Bring supplies. You’ll need drinking water, insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat.
• Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes to help prevent injury.
• Never feed or touch wildlife. If you encounter wildlife on the trail, keep your distance and back away slowly.
• Wheelchairs and manually-powered mobility aids are allowed anywhere foot traffic is allowed.

Some Of This Year's Hikes:

Hillsborough River State Park

15402 U.S. Highway 301 North, Thonotosassa

• Four self-guided hiking trails to choose from, which total 7.3 miles
• Equestrian trail
• Bicyclists are invited to ride on the 1.6-mile Wetlands Restoration Nature Trail as well as the 2.2-mile park loop. Wearing helmets is recommended.
• Paddling

Additional Details: Leashed pets are welcome. A fishing license may be required for you to fish. Restrooms are located throughout the park.

For more information, visit its website

Alafia River State Park

14326 S. County Road 39, Lithia

• Equestrians and hikers can explore 20 miles of hilly trails through forests and flatwoods, stopping to relax and admire one of the park's pristine lakes
• The bicycle trails at Alafia River have the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) Epic designation. The park offers a wide variety of bicycle trails, ranging from beginner to highly advanced. Helmets are required for all their trails. *Pets are not allowed on the bike trails
• Paddling
• Birding
• Fishing
• Boating

Additional Details: Leashed pets are welcome. Pets are welcome on all hiking trails, including the multi-use trail, Turtle Two Track. All pets must be on a hand-held, 6-foot leash at all times. Pets may not be left unattended.

For more information, visit Alafia River State Park website.

Allen David Broussard Catfish Preserve State Park

4335 Firetower Road, Haines City

• 8-mile horseback riding trail
• 5 1/2 miles of hiking trails
• Fishing
• Wildlife viewing

Additional Information: Leashed pets are welcome.

For more information, click here.

Honeymoon Island State Park

#1 Causeway Blvd., Dunedin

• Hiking along the Osprey Trail, which provides visitors with 2.5 miles of walking.
• Bicycling
• Fishing
• Paddling
• Swimming (a pet beach on the south end)

Additional Information: Beach wheelchairs available for free. Bikes available to rent for riding on paved trails. Dogs are allowed in designated areas such as the pet beach on the southern tip of the island and on the nature trail. Pets must be on a 6-foot hand-held leash at all times in these areas.

For more information, visit Honey Moon Island.

Oscar Sherer State Park

1843 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey

• With over 15 miles of hiking trails and the 12-mile paved Legacy Trail running through the park, your walking options are wide and varied. Enjoy a quarter-mile walk around Lake Osprey to a stroll on the Legacy Trail.
• Biking
• Rollerblading
• Paddling
• Tram Tours

Additional Information: Pets are allowed in the campground and visitor recreation areas. Several campsites along the creek are not pet-friendly due to their proximity to the water. Pets must be well-behaved and kept on a six-foot, hand-held leash at all times. They must not be left unattended nor taken into restroom facilities or onto playground equipment.

For more information, visit its website.