Start 2026 with a guided hike in one of California’s state parks

Kickstart a year of outdoor adventure with a guided hike — or a wintry dip in the ocean — at one of San Diego County’s state parks on New Year’s Day.

California state parks are offering dozens of First Day Hikes at more than 60 parks across the state on Jan. 1, including several in San Diego County.

Along the trail, hikers will learn from park guides about each area’s vegetation, local wildlife and geology. It’s part of a nationwide initiative to get more people outdoors.

And for the first time, Cardiff State Beach will hold a polar bear plunge on Jan. 1 for participants to ring in 2026 with a jump in the chilly Pacific Ocean. Average water temperatures this time of year are around 60 degrees.

Visitors can search through the California State Parks online database to find their hike or to sign up for the ocean plunge. Some First Day Hikes also require advance registration. State park entrance fees apply.

For the hikers, guided mountain and desert hikes will be at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Palomar Mountain State Park. Coastal hikes will be held on at San Onofre and Torrey Pines state beaches and at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Extension nearby.

Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area will offer a 19-mile guided vehicle drive to give visitors an overview of the area’s history and flora and fauna.

The hikes are short — the longest is 2 miles — and range in difficulty from easy to moderate. The start times vary throughout New Year’s Day, and dogs are allowed on some.

Keep an eye on the weather, as rain or snow will cancel a hike, according to the state agency.

Cardiff State Beach’s polar bear plunge also includes a short 0.3-mile walk. Participants should bring swimwear, a towel and extra layers. Warm drinks and fire pits will be available as supplies last — just bring your own mug.

Swimmers should be confident in their abilities. State parks recommends the plunge only for participants over 5 years old. The event will be canceled if there’s rain, high wind or severe ocean swells.