BISMARCK, N.D. — Ring in the new year on state park trails with a special Last Day Hike on Wed., Dec. 31 at Cross Ranch State Park and First Day Hikes on Thurs., Jan. 1 at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park and Fort Stevenson State Park.
North Dakota Parks and Recreation also launches its 2026 Hiking Challenge today within the Outer Spatial app, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore the state’s natural beauty through all four seasons.
Last Day Hike – Cross Ranch State Park
Wed., Dec. 31 at 4:00 p.m.
Close out the year with a guided Last Day Hike at Cross Ranch State Park along the scenic Missouri River. Participants of all experience levels can choose between a 1-mile or 3-mile hike along the Matah Trail.
Hikers should meet at the Visitor Center at 4:00 p.m. Following the hike, participants are invited to warm up by the campfire with hot chocolate or apple cider.
Be sure to check the weather and dress appropriately for the conditions. Equipment rentals are available at the Visitor Center.
The event is free with a North Dakota State Parks Annual Pass or a $7 vehicle entrance fee. Passes may be purchased online or on-site. For more information, contact the park office at 701- 794-3731, email crsp@nd.gov or follow @prdcrsp on Facebook.
First Day Hike – Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Thurs., Jan. 1 at 1:00 p.m.
Ring in the new year with the annual First Day Hike at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, a refreshing way to enjoy the beauty of the winter outdoors.
The Visitor Center will open one hour prior to the guided hike. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to purchase 2026 annual park passes, gift cards, park apparel, and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and coffee by a cozy fire.
The guided hike begins at 1:00 p.m. Trails may be muddy or snow-covered; tall hiking boots are recommended. This hike is not stroller-friendly, and in the event of adverse weather, the route may be shortened.
The event is free with a North Dakota State Parks Annual Pass or a $7 vehicle entrance fee. Passes may be purchased online or on-site. For more information, contact the park office at 701-667-6340, email falsp@nd.gov or follow @FortLincoln on Facebook.
First Day Hike – Fort Stevenson State Park
Thurs., Jan. 1 at 6:00 p.m.
Fort Stevenson State Park kicks off its 2026 Evening Hike Series with a self-guided First Day Hike illuminated by candle luminaries. Depending on conditions, participants may hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski along an approximately 1-mile trail. The hike begins at the Visitor Center, which will remain open throughout the evening and equipment rentals are available.
The event is free with a North Dakota State Parks Annual Pass or a $7 vehicle entrance fee. Passes may be purchased online or on-site. For more information, contact the park office at 701-337-5576, email fssp@nd.gov, or follow @fort.stevenson on Facebook.
Launch of the 2026 Hiking Challenge
The 2026 Hiking Challenge returns to the OuterSpatial App for another year, encouraging participants to explore state park trails throughout all four seasons while earning digital badges and entries into quarterly prize drawings.
Each season features a unique challenge:
Winter (Jan. 1 – March 30): Log three different trails and upload a photo of wildlife tracks.
Spring (April 1 – June 30): Complete four hikes across two parks and upload a photo of emerging greenery.
Summer (July 1 – Sept. 30): Log six hikes, including one at sunrise or sunset, and upload a photo.
Fall (Oct. 1 – Dec. 31): Hike three different trails and upload a photo capturing something legendary along the trail.
Participants who complete a seasonal challenge will be entered into prize drawings for free weekday camping nights or annual vehicle permits.
There is no cost to participate in the challenge, though standard park entrance and camping fees will apply. All ages are welcome, but each participant must have their own account within the OuterSpatial app.
“Whether you’re closing out the year or starting a new one, these hikes are a great way to get outside, enjoy our state parks, and set a healthy, adventurous tone for the year ahead,” said North Dakota Parks and Recreation Director Cody Schulz.
For more information on upcoming events, visit our Events page and follow our state park Facebook pages.
The mission of the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department is to enrich generations through experiences that connect people and places.