Upcoming Winter Events with Idaho Parks and Recreation

Wednesday December 22, 2021

IDAHO (December 22, 2021) – Winter has arrived and there are plenty of upcoming outdoor winter events to celebrate the new year! Several Idaho State Parks are hosting a First Day Hikes event as well as the annual Free Ski/Winter Access Day. A full list of events can be found below.

First Day Hikes (January 1, 2022):

  • Virtual First Day Hikes: Everywhere! In light of the ongoing pandemic, we are also offering a virtual First Day Hike option.
  • Farragut State Park: Athol, Idaho. Farragut State Park is hosting a guided hike (or snowshoe) at 10 AM.
  • Canceled due to weather. Hells Gate State Park: Lewiston, Idaho. Hells Gate State Park is encouraging participants to explore self-guided hikes of their 12+ miles of trails. 
  • Harriman State Park: Island Park, Idaho. Enjoy a First Day Winter Trek at Harriman State Park with a two-mile guided snowshoe hike. Hot cocoa will be provided!
  • City of Rocks/Castle Rocks State Park: Almo, Idaho. It’s a New Years Day adventure! There will be two guided hikes and a guided Raptors Auto Tour. Pre-registration is requested.

Free Ski/Winter Access Day (January 8, 2022):

Note: Free Ski/Winter Access Day is usually held the first Saturday of the year unless it falls on New Years Day. For 2022, it will be held on the second Saturday. It should also be noted that this does not apply to any downhill ski areas and is for the Idaho Park N Ski locations and various parks only.
 

  • No permits needed at the 17 Park N’ Ski locations across the state.Cross Country Skiers at Ponderosa State Park, next to the lake a winter scene with colors of the rising sun in the background
  • Ponderosa State Park: McCall, Idaho. Come enjoy free winter access at Ponderosa State Park! For free cross-country ski lessons and snowshoe tours, pre-registration is required. Check their Facebook page for the latest information.
  • Farragut State Park. Athol, Idaho. Come enjoy Free Winter Access Day at Farragut State Park. Explore the trails on snowshoes or xc skis and enjoy the natural beauty of Farragut in the winter! Food Drive: Participants are welcome to bring non-perishable food items. Donations will go to the ABC Food Bank in Athol.
  • Priest Lake State Park. Coolin, Idaho. Free cross-country ski lessons as well as a guided snowshoe hike and more (like hot coffee and chair massages!)
  • Harriman State Park. Island Park, Idaho. Winter Access Fees will be waived for this fun day in the snow. Bring your skis, snowshoes, fat bikes, and your whole family out to play! Activities include : ski tips & pointers, winter gear demos, guided snowshoe hike, and more… hike begins at 11:00 meet at the Ranchview Shelter

For latest updates and information, visit the Calendar page on parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/calendar/