'First Day Hikes' Set for Florida Parks

 America's State Parks First Day Hikes 2013 are on Jan. 1, 2013.

The event offers an opportunity to begin the New Year connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Jan. 1 at a Florida state park.

First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

Currently, there are 627 First Day Hikes spanning all 50 states. The Florida Park Service is proud to host more than 60 events, the most of any state.

Start times will vary by park. Please check the park’s event page for details. Here are parks for the southwest region of Florida:

Lovers Key State Park

8700 Estero Boulevard, Fort Myers Beach

Myakka River State Park

13208 State Road 72, Sarasota

Stump Pass Beach State Park

900 Gulf Blvd, Englewood

Honeymoon Island State Park

#1 Causeway Boulevard, Dunedin

Caladesi Island State Park

#1 Causeway Boulevard, Dunedin

Hillsborough River State Park

15402 U.S. 301 North, Thonotosassa