Kick off 2016 with an invigorating hike

Here’s a way to celebrate the first day of 2016 amid scenic surroundings while boosting your fitness in the bargain: Take a hike.

Arizona State Parks, along with other state park systems around the nation, is sponsoring a slate of guided “First Day Hikes” on New Year’s Day.

“What better way to start off the New Year than enjoying what is yours, right in your own backyard,” said Sue Black, executive director of Arizona State Parks. The agency “is offering 18 organized hikes on Jan. 1, with five in the Tucson area.”

The hikes are included with the day-use entrance fee to each park.

Hiking sites in Southern Arizona include Catalina State Park north of Tucson, trail areas at Kartchner Caverns State Park near Benson, Patagonia Lake State Park near Patagonia, Picacho Peak State Park northwest of Tucson and Roper Lake State Park near Safford.

Gaston Meloche, a volunteer with Catalina State Park, will lead a seven-mile hike on the park’s 50-Year Trail Loop. It begins at 8 a.m. on New Year’s Day at the equestrian center parking area in the park.

“What I like is that it’s not as difficult as some other trails in the park, so many people will be able to do it,” Meloche said.

“It’s beautiful,” Meloche said of the hiking route which passes through classic Sonoran Desert terrain. “Hikers get very nice views of the mountains and the Sutherland Basin. The panorama is really nice.”

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MORE FIRST DAY HIKES

Among other state parks offering guided hikes:

• Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park near Superior
• Lost Dutchman State Park near Apache Junction
• Slide Rock State Park near Sedona.
• Homolovi State Park near Winslow

A full listing of hike locations is available at azstateparks.com/fdh online

WHAT TO BRING

Hikers are advised to wear warm clothes in layers and bring plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, sturdy shoes or boots and perhaps a walking stick.

Binoculars and a camera might also come in handy for those who want to zero in on sights and record the experience.

Park officials suggest calling your chosen park destination before you leave to be sure there are no changes to the hike due to weather.