What are your plans for New Year’s Day 2026? Iowa state parks and forests invite you to enjoy the outdoors and take a hike! More than 40 locations are offering either a guided hike with park staff or a suggested hike to explore on your own.
Hikers can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, and experience spectacular views, beautiful settings and the cultural treasures offered by Iowa’s state parks.
Pilot Knob State Park will hold their first hike beginning at 1:00pm on New Year’s Day. Everyone should meet at the Warming House/Lake Parking Lot located at 2148 340th St., Forest City, IA 50436
Park Officials want you to join them for a 1.4-mile guided hike through the forest put on by the Friends of Pilot Knob with sledding, s’mores, and other winter activities to follow! The hike will begin at 1 pm with other activities following. Please keep all pets on a leash. The trail surface is dirt and grass with some gentle inclines and a few steep sections.
