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Join WA State Parks at Nolte for New Years hike

Published 12:00 pm Wednesday, December 17, 2025

By Wire Service

Nolte State Park — though it’ll look different on Jan. 1 than it does in this photo, taken in the summer. Photo courtesy Washington State Parks

Nolte State Park — though it’ll look different on Jan. 1 than it does in this photo, taken in the summer. Photo courtesy Washington State Parks

Join Washington State Parks on Jan. 1 for our annual First Day Hikes events – an opportunity for everyone to get outside and enjoy a beautiful state park!

Choose a guided hike, snowshoe excursion, trail ride, polar plunge or interpretive activity to enjoy on New Year’s Day.

First Day Hikes events vary in difficulty, ranging from smooth, flat ADA-accessible trails to moderate hill climbs. A few parks will even offer multiple hikes to suit different interests and skill levels. Additionally, several hikes will include talks with rangers, which allow attendees to learn about the park’s history and natural features.

All participants will receive a collectible Washington State Parks 2026 First Day Hikes button.

Note: Most First Day Hikes require advanced registration, and group sizes may be limited. Visit our website to view all activities and registration information.

All hikes are free and a Discover Pass is not needed to park on state managed lands on Jan. 1, our first free day of 2026. However, if you plan to participate in a First Day Hike at a park that operates as a Sno-Park during the winter (Fields Spring, Lake Easton, Lake Wenatchee and Mount Spokane), a Sno-Park permit is required.

NOLTE STATE PARK

January 1, 2026, 11am – 12:30pm

A guided tour around the wooded trail through Nolte State Park, lead by Park Ranger Bailey. Ranger Bailey will point out various flora and fauna along the hike and describe the history of the Park and the Tahoma Gateway area.

Length of Hike: 1.5 miles

Where to Meet: Interpretive Board next to parking lot and restroom building.

Is this Hike for Beginners? Yes

Suggested minimum age of children to attend: All ages

ADA Accessible? No

Stroller Accessible? Yes

Are leashed dogs allowed? Yes

Restrictions: Ability to climb a short but decently steep incline.

Registration Required: No

Things to bring: Hiking boots and dress in layers, weather is unpredictable at Nolte due to the geography of the area.

Cancellation Information: Call (360) 886-0148

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