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1st Day Hike – Chippokes State Park
January 1 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
About First Day Hikes
Every year on Jan. 1, Virginia State Parks celebrates First Day Hikes. This nationwide initiative invites people to ring in the new year by connecting with nature and making lasting memories at a state park. Ranger-led and self-guided First Day Hikes are offered across the state, giving visitors of all ages and skill levels the chance to explore outdoors. January 1 is a Free Parking Day at all Virginia State Parks. (The admission fee at Natural Bridge still applies).
10 – 11 am: Flying Feathered Friends
Stretch your wings on this First Day Hike all about the birds that call Chippokes State park their nest!
Join a Ranger led excursion along College Run Trail to the shoreline of the James River. Identify birds by behavior, characteristics and habitats in the first hike of 2026. Birders of all experience levels are welcome on this 1-mile long hike. It’s strongly recommended for guests to bring water bottles, hiking boots/comfortable walking shoes, walking sticks/hiking poles, binoculars and warm clothing. Meet at the Chippokes Visitor Center.
11 am – 12:30 pm: Virginia Master Naturalists: James River Trail Meet & Greet
Start the new year of 2026 outdoors with a Virginia Master Naturalist!
The Virginia Master Naturalist Historic Southside Chapter will be hosting a Chapter Meet & Greet for all hikers to attend and enjoy. Spend time exploring and observing nature with Master Naturalists in the field.
Bring your smart phones, identification apps, binoculars, field guides, water, a friend or family member, and anything else you’ll need to record and observe wildlife. Parking is located behind the Jones – Stewart Mansion. The group will then trek to the end of James River trail from the Mansion grounds, which will be approximately 1.2 miles.
You’ll be sure to get your steps in on the 1st of January, while learning more about both the Flora and Fauna of Chippokes.
1:30 – 2:30 pm: Arbor Adventure!
If you’re curious about trees, satisfy your curiosity on this Arbor Adventure!
Join a ranger on Chippoax Trace Trail to identify Chippokes trees on this first day hike!
This trail takes visitors from rolling farm fields, into canopied woodlands, up and down inclines, and to a worthwhile scenic view of the beautiful salt marshes of Chippokes. Guests are highly encouraged to bring water bottles, hiking boots/comfortable shoes, hiking poles/walking sticks and warm clothing.
This excursion will be approximately 2 miles, to the end of the Trace Trail and back.
Parking is available at the Chipoax Trail Trailhead along Chippokes Farm Road. Chipoax Trace Trail is along the Chippokes Farm Rd. Look for a small brown sign, third driveway on right if driving toward the park exit.
Other details
Standard parking or admission fee applies: No.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 757-294-3728
