If you’re looking to kick off 2026 on the right foot, Machicomoco State Park in Hayes might have the answer for you. The park has two first day hikes planned on Thursday, Jan. 1, beginning in the park’s interpretive area. Interpretive rangers will be offering both Hike Through History and Machicomoco’s Habitat Hike, first at 10:30 a.m. and then again at 11:45. Hikers participating in Hike Through History will walk along Oyster trail, while those with Machicomoco’s Habitat Hike will head down songbird and moccasin trail. Guests who choose to paricipate in both hikes will learn about Virginia’s indigenous history and the diverse habitats that make up the park, while enjoying an active and mentally stimulating start to the new year, a release stated. The outdoor fun doesn’t stop there as the park offers many hobbies and activities like biking, hiking, and even birding that guests can enjoy throughout the month. The winter months are the perfect time to catch several migratory birds and th...