Washington State Parks invites the public to start the new year off with a First Day Hike on Monday, Jan. 1, at more than three dozen state parks across Washington.

“First Day Hikes are a fitting way to cap off the holidays and discover the off-season appeal of Washington’s state parks,” Washington State Parks director Don Hoch said in a press release. “This year parks are offering something for every fitness level and interest, including guided hikes with rangers, snowshoe treks and fat bike rides.”

Jan. 1 also is the first of 12 Washington State Parks “free days” taking place in 2018. Park visitors will not need to display the Discover Pass on vehicles to access state parks for the New Year’s Day activities or for other state park visits on that day.

Most participating parks will offer refreshments following the outings.

More details about First Day Hikes are on Washington State Parks’ official blog, Adventure Awaits, at adventureawaits.com.

In King County, First Day Hikes will be offered at two locations, including at Saltwater State Park, near Federal Way.

Nolte State Park: This is an easy ranger-led quarter-mile loop walk around the park’s Deep Lake. Meet at 10 a.m. at the park’s main bulletin board.

Saltwater State Park: This is a nearly 2-mile stroll to experience the park’s flora, fauna and rich history — including a tour of the displays in the forest and marine rooms within the park’s Civilian Conservation Corps cabin. Hikers can also learn fun facts about Saltwater’s 90-year history. Meet at 10 a.m. at the CCC cabin.

To see maps to the parks go to parks.state.wa.us.

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For more information on purchasing an annual Discover Pass, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov.