First Day Hikes 2026: Ice Age Fossils

Midnight First Day Hike

RESERVATION REQUIRED

Date: December 31, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Time: 10:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Distance: 2 miles
Meeting Location: Visitor Center

Join us for our first of two First Day Hikes. First Day Hikes are held every year in all 50 states and encourage people to celebrate the New Year by getting outside, moving their bodies, and connecting with nature.

This hike will be on the Big Dig Trail and we will do a New Year's countdown at midnight at the Camp Site shade structure along the trail, making it one of the earliest First Day Hike experiences in the country.

This trail is 2 miles long over uneven terrain with gravely surfaces, some steps, and steep slopes. Close toed shoes and plenty of water are recommended. Dress warm! Last year was very cold so we want everyone to be prepared.
Cost: The $3 per person entry fee applies. Kids 12 and under are always free. There is no additional fee for this program.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Reservations can be made at https://forms.gle/Zc6cJY7TfvLfcogZ8

Conditions of the reservation:
·        This hike is limited to 50 people and registration is REQUIRED. Individuals that show up and are unregistered will be turned away. The registration form will stop accepting reservations once we reach capacity, or at 4 pm 12/31/25.
·        The park entrance fee will be collected at this event and is $3/person, kids 12 and under are always free. We will accept Nevada State Park Passes, cash, and credit/debit cards ONLY, no tap to pay, or American Express will be accepted.
·         Participants MUST arrive between 10:00-10:20pm. If you arrive outside of that time frame the gates will be closed. All visitors must exit the park at the conclusion of the hike around 1 am.
·         Flashlights are required (minimum of 1 for every 2 people) and red lights are preferred since they are less disruptive to wildlife. UV flashlights are welcome if you are looking for fluorescent wildlife.
·         Dogs/pets are not allowed on this hike for safety purposes.
·         Children 17 or under MUST be accompanied by an adult and stay with that adult.
·         This event is weather dependent. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
·         The museum space will be closed for this event, but the giftshop and restrooms will be open during check-in.

Midday First Day Hike

Date: January 1, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Distance: 1.5 miles
Meeting Location: Visitor Center

Event Description

Celebrate New Year’s Day with a First Day Hike at Ice Age Fossils State Park. Part of a nationwide tradition, these hikes encourage people of all ages to start their year with outdoor exploration and healthy activity.

This is our second of two First Day Hikes. The hike will be on the Las Vegas Wash Trail and we will do a New Year's countdown to kick off the hike. This trail is 1.5 miles long over uneven terrain with gravely surfaces, some steps, and steep slopes.

Participants should plan on arriving at the park at least 15 minutes before the start of the program to give them enough time to check in.

No registration required.

Weather dependent.