First Day Hikes – Chinquapin Challenge
Thu, January 01, 2026
Start the new year off on the right boot and on our most popular trail.
This year we are highlighting our most popular trail and tracking how many times our guests can hike it in one day. Starting at mile marker 0.0, the trail will take you 6.9 miles around Lake Raven. Surrounding you with the majesty of the piney woods. Giving some amazing views of the lake. And serenading you with the sounds of nature. At the end there will be a finish line and claim your First Day Hike sticker.
This is a challenging hike for its distance and there are no shortcuts back. Please be prepared with trail and weather appropriate gear, water and snacks. This activity is self-guided.
There are shorter hikes that can be done to celebrate your first day hike. Make sure to stop by the volunteers at the Nature Center to let them know how far you did hike and receive your sticker.
IMPORTANT NOTE: January 2nd is a public hunt. All trails and the park need to be cleared by 5pm on the first. Please plan ahead to arrive and complete your hike before then.