PERRYSVILLE – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) invites Ohioans to welcome 2026 with adventure, inspiration, and a breath of fresh air during its annual First Day Hikes program.
This New Year’s Day tradition provides a healthy, energizing way to begin the year, with guided hikes offered across the state.
“First Day hikes are a simple but meaningful way to begin the year with clarity, connection, and purpose,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. “Whether you’re stepping onto a trail for the first time or returning to a favorite path, Ohio’s state parks and nature preserves offer a place to reset and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us.”
Mohican trails
Several hiking trails traverse Mohican State Park.
- Clear Fork Gorge NP Trail – .04 mile – easy
- Clear Fork Gorge Trail – .06 mile – moderate
- Gorge Overlook Trail – 2 miles – extreme
- Grist Mill Overlook Trail – 0.7 mile – extreme
- Hemlock Gorge Trail – 2.4 miles – moderate – leads to the Swinging Bridge and Covered Bridge
- Hog Hollow Trail – 2.1 miles – moderate
- Lyons Falls Trail – 2 miles – moderate – follows Clear Fork Gorge and features two waterfalls
- North Rim Trail – 1 mile – moderate
- Pleasant Hill Trail – 0.8 mile – easy – follows the river to the Pleasant Hill Dam
- State Coach Trail (cut off on Lyons Falls) – .02 mile – moderate
- Shelter House Trail – 1.2 miles – moderate
Named “Trail of the Month” by Runners World Magazine, Mohican State Park is the home to one of the oldest ultra marathons in the U.S., The Mohican Trail 100, and also hosted the first ever US Track and Field Ultra Marathon National Championship in 2005.
Hikers are also permitted on the bridle trails and the mountain bike trails. Please be courteous to other trail users and give right-of-way to riders while hiking on their trails.
Hikers are reminded to dress in layers, protect exposed skin, and bring water and snacks. Let someone know your plans before heading out and visit the ODNR website for winter trail safety tips and details on each hosted hike by searching “First Day Hike” on the events page.
Start 2026 on the right foot by joining ODNR on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. Bring family and friends, lace up your boots, and step into the New Year surrounded by the natural beauty of Ohio.