First Day 5k

 01/01/2027  |  10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  Chatfield State Park  |  Registration Required

Special Events - All Ages

Every year, state parks put on a hike for the first day of the year. This year Chatfield is making it a 5k Run/Walk! Parking will be at the Gravel Ponds Parking Lot and the Kingfisher Parking Lot, with overflow at the South Platte Parking Lot. The event will start at the last parking area of the Gravel Ponds. The route is 5k (3.1 miles) along the Gravel Ponds down to the Wildlife Viewing Gazebo and back, making it a semi-lollipop route (See attached map for the route and parking). The Gravel Ponds Parking Lots will be closed for the event. The event will happen snow or shine, so please be appropriately prepared for the elements. The course is all unpaved trail, including dirt road and singletrack. Be aware there could be ice on the course, so take it easy and don't risk injury. The park will provide hot water and coffee at the start and finish, but please bring your own mug or thermos. There will be one aid station at about the halfway point at the Wildlife Viewing Gazebo with water. Registration is required and is free, however state park passes are required. Please carpool as parking is limited. If you cannot make it after registering, please remove your registration or email the park so that we can open it up for someone else. Please check-in with the park staff at the start when you arrive, and check-out when you are leaving so we don't lose anyone. Welcome will start at 10am, runners will start at 10:10am and walkers will follow at 10:15am. Giveaways will be provided for all participants, and a podium picture with the top 5 runners will be posted on social media.

Registration is required for this activity. Click "register" to reserve your spot.