DAVIS – Each year has a set of unique and challenging hurdles everyone must overcome.

However, most everyone would agree that 2020 has presented everyone with barriers that have, at times, seemed insurmountable. So, as we approach the new year with hopes of an easier trek around the sun, why not start out on the ‘right foot?’

This year, many folks have found comfort in getting out and relaxing in nature, and the West Virginia Parks system is not only offering First Day Hikes around the state, but also is offering a ‘Stroll at Sunset’ on New Year’s Eve and a ‘Second Day Hike’ and ‘Third Strike Hike’ to make sure folks can welcome 2021 and say ‘sayonara’ to 2020.

According to the National Park Service website, hiking is also proven to have many health benefits ranging from the physical exercise you get when out on the trail to emotional or mental relief that comes from being in nature. They said some of the physical benefits of hiking include building stronger muscles and bones, improving your sense of balance, improving heart health and decreasing the risk of certain respiratory problems. It adds that being in nature can boost your mood and improve mental health by reducing stress, calming anxiety and lowering the risk of depression.

In nearby Davis, West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park is offering a ‘Sunset on 2020 Stroll’ which begins Dec. 31, 2020 at 3:30 p.m. Folks wanting to take this two-mile trek at a reasonable pace should meet at the Blackwater Falls Nature Center.

The midpoint of the hike will take hikers to a Blackwater Canyon overlook to view the setting sun and allow folks to say goodbye to 2020.

Participants in the ‘Sunset on 2020 Stroll’ are asked to wear a face covering, maintain social distancing as is permitted and should remember to bring water and a flashlight for the return trip. Organizers of the event also ask hikers to dress for the weather and wear sturdy hiking boots.

On New Year’s Day, beginning at 10 a.m. at Blackwater Falls State Park, everyone is invited to welcome in 2021 with one of many ‘First Day Hikes’ across West Virginia. Hikers will meet at the parking area of the old petting zoo/stables of Blackwater Falls State Park and the two-mile hike will travel down the Stemwinder Grade Trail, the Davis Trail and the Red Spruce Trail for an interpretive hike with park naturalist/interpreter Paulita Cousin.

Reservations are not required and there is no charge for this event. Participants are asked to dress for the weather, to wear sturdy hiking boots and bring drinking water. Those completing the First Day Hike will receive a commemorative First Day Hike patch.

Other First Day Hikes in West Virginia State Parks include:

• Holly River State Park in Hacker Valley, West Virginia. Participants will meet at 11 a.m. at the Anderson Activity Building for a 2.5-mile hike on the Tramontane Trail. Additional information about this First Day Hike is available by emailing hollyriversp@wv.gov.

• Tygart Lake State Park in Grafton, West Virginia. Hikers will meet up at the park campground at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Both hikes will travel the Bus Loop Trail. Additional information is available by emailing Jacob.a.jackson@wv.gov.

• Chief Logan State Park in Logan, West Virginia. Those taking the First Day Hike will depart from the park office at 10 a.m. and travel down the Cliffside Trail, which is about a 1-mile hike. There will be a ‘Second Day Hike’ and a ‘Third Strike Hike’ on Jan. 2 and 3. Additional information is available by emailing lauren.e.cole@wv.gov.

• Cacapon Resort State Park in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. The First Day Hikers will meet at the Cacapon Nature Center and will have a choice to follow the Laurel Trail for a 2-mile hike, the Central Trail for a 3-mile hike or the Ziler Loop Trail for a 5-mile hike. Email valerie.l.cheney@wv.gov for additional information or questions.

• North Bend State Park in Cairo, West Virginia. There the First Day Hike begins at Shelter 3 at 10 a.m. and the trek is 1.6 miles long. Information is available by email at adam.l.wissner@wv.gov.

• Twin Falls State Park in Mullens, West Virginia. They offer a First Day Hike which is 1 1/3 miles long. Meet at noon at the Scout Field.

• Pipestem State Park in Pipestem, West Virginia. Pipestem has a First Day Hike which lasts approximately two hours and those wanting to take the trek should meet at 1 p.m. at the McKeever Lodge. The hike follows the Lake Shore Trail and questions should be emailed to Julie.a.mcquade@wv.gov.

• Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in Cass, West Virginia. Those wishing to hike at this park should meet at 1 p.m. at the Cass Visitor’s Center for the 3-mile hike.