CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The 2016 centennial of North Carolina's parks system starts off with First Day Hikes, an opportunity for residents to stretch their legs after a holiday season that may have included too many calories.
The First Day Hikes began in North Carolina more than 40 years ago in Eno River State Park. Last year, almost 3,000 people collectively hiked more than 7,000 miles on state park trails on New Year's Day.
Forty-six guided hikes are scheduled for Friday in North Carolina, ranging from short "leg-stretchers' to six-mile treks. Adventures include scavenger hunts in Falls Lake State Recreation Area and a new polar plunge in the lake at Hanging Rock State Park.
North Carolina's state park system celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.
A complete list of hikes is available here.
Be sure to download the WSOC-TV Wake Up app to get the latest breaking news, weather and traffic on your phone first thing in the mornings.