In the video above, Aneesa Coomer reports on the annual "First Day Hike" at Giant Springs State Park in Great Falls.
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First Day Hikes are an annual tradition where state parks offer guided tours on the first day of the year. This year, participants at Giant Springs State Park braved snowy weather on New Year’s Day, enjoying a ranger-guided hike along the river.
Co-sponsored by America’s State Parks, 2024 marks the 10th annual national First Day Hike, with events held across all 50 states to encourage people to celebrate the new year through outdoor exploration.
"I find it really incredible that it is 15 degrees. It's actively snowing and the trail is icy, yet we still had people show up to honor the new year," said Kasey Pierce, ranger with Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.
While promoting outdoor exploration, participants also received an inside look at the Giant Springs Trout Hatchery, learning about the fertilization, feeding, and raising of approximately one million fish each year, which are stocked in lakes and reservoirs throughout the state. The purpose of the First Day Hike is to inspire people to explore the cultural and historical resources that state parks offer.
Giant Springs State Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The park is at 4603 Giant Springs Road. For more information call the Giant Springs Ranger Station at 406-727-1212.
