For those looking to release pent-up energy from the holiday season, Pilot Mountain State Park officials have a suggestion: take a hike. A First Day Hike at the park that is, which will be helping to perpetuate a statewide New Year’s Day tradition.
Every year on January 1 since 2011, parks across North Carolina have hosted First Day Hikes and encouraged the public to participate as a wholesome way to begin the new year while enjoying the Great Outdoors — free of charge.
“It’s starting the year off on the right foot, so to speak,” said Pilot Mountain Ranger Jesse Anderson, who has led First Day hikes there in recent years.
On Jan. 1, 2016, more than 120 people of all ages laced up their hiking boots and took part in two separate treks at Pilot Mountain.
Next weekend’s activities to kick off 2017 will be held rain or shine. Attendance largely can depend on the weather, with Anderson pointing out that the Jan. 1 date can offer a mixed bag.
“There’ll be two different hikes,” Anderson said of next Sunday’s schedule, including a longer hike and a shorter one to appeal to all levels of participants, with each to be guided by park personnel.
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I am Jeff Clark, founder of Internet Brothers, producer of this blog, and passionate about hiking. I live in Western NC near the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains. Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests are just out my door, so the content will focus on these areas, but let me know what you would like to see on the site. 
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