First Day Hike

Start the new year outdoors!

Led by CLC President Troy Weldy, highlights of the hike will include stopping along the trail to learn about the animals and plants that call Columbia County home and catching the first sunset of the year.

This event marks the beginning of CLC’s 40th anniversary of caring for land together. Be sure to expect a bit of birthday fun to kick off the year-long celebration!

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes like this one will be organized nationwide. Last year, nearly 55,000 people rang in the New Year hiking, collectively walking over 133,000 miles throughout the country.

What to expect: The event will take place at Overmountain! We will walk a mile along the Kestrel Trail over packed earth and mowed grass to the Kite Hill Gazebo, where seating is available. When individuals are ready, there will be a quarter-mile walk down the hill to return to the parking lot. Please bring a flashlight, as the return walk to the parking lot will be after sunset.

What to bring: Bring water and a light source (headlamp, flashlight) and wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Social, leashed dogs are welcome, but please bring bags for waste!

We are proud to offer this program for free to the public with a suggested five-dollar donation. This gift will allow CLC to continue offering programs like these at no cost and support land conservation work.