New Mexico
First Day Hikes kick off 2025 in El Paso, New Mexico parks
Exercise always comes to mind at the start of a new year as people think about personal changes they want to make. And while fitness gyms may be popular at the beginning of the year, there’s also a great opportunity to start 2025 with a hike.
In El Paso and New Mexico, as in the United States, several state parks will participate in the First Day Hikes initiative. In New Mexico, 14 state parks will be part of many planned and guided hikes.
“First Day hikes are a fantastic way to begin the new year by focusing on health and well-being,” said Toby Velasquez, Director of New Mexico State Parks in an email. “Spending time outdoors, breathing in fresh air, and engaging in physical activity can boost both mental and physical health. We encourage everyone to join us for a hike, embrace nature, and start the year feeling energized and connected to the outdoors.”
Guided hikes are free and open to the public, with options suitable for various abilities. In New Mexico, guides will lead participants through picturesque trails while sharing information about the local wildlife, habitats, and history of the parks.
In addition to the hikes, some parks will host polar plunges for those who want to take a daring dip into cold, clear waters on the first day of the year.
First Day Hikes in El Paso
We Hike will have a hike at noon Wednesday, Jan. 1, at Chuck Heinrick Park, 11101 Loma Del Sol Drive. The hike will be from 4 to 6 miles around the Franklins, looking at the desert and hearing about the environment.
Hikers should take a minimum of 2 liters of water, sunscreen, and a good hat for protection from the sun, as there is no shade on the trail. Snacks are always good to have. Bring any medications you may personally need.
The fee will be $5 per person Park fee, or use your Texas Park pass. Go online to https://texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com/franklin…
First Day Hikes in New Mexico
Here is a list of the parks participating in First Day Hikes in New Mexico.
- Brantley Lake State Park
- Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Cerrillos Hills State Park
- Time: 1 – 3 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Eagle Nest Lake State Park
- Time: 12 – 3 p.m.
- Activity: New Year’s Polar Plunge
- Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike Polar Stomp
- Elephant Butte Lake State Park
- Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike Dam
- Fenton Lake State Park
- Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Activity: Walk First Day Hike
- Hyde Memorial State Park
- Time: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Living Desert State Park
- Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Oliver Lee Memorial State Park
- Time: 10 – 11 a.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Pancho Villa State Park
- Time: 9 – 10 a.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Santa Rosa Lake State Park
- Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Storrie Lake State Park
- Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- Activity: Polar Bear Plunge
- Sugarite Canyon State Park
- Time: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike Snow Stomp
- Sumner Lake State Park
- Time: 1 – 2 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike
- Ute Lake State Park
- Time: 12 – 2 p.m.
- Activity: First Day Hike/Bring a Picnic
María Cortés González may be reached at 915-546-6150; mcortes@elpasotimes.com, @EPTMaria on Twitter; eptmariacg on Instagram, eptmariacg on TikTok.
New Mexico
Playoff-Race closing: New Mexico United takes on Colorado Springs Switchbacks – New Mexico United
New Mexico United travels to Colorado Springs this Wednesday for a Western Conference showdown in the USL Championship playoff race.
The Black & Yellow currently sit fifth in the USL Championship, fighting for the postseason and will look to keep building momentum as the regular season winds down. With a few matches remaining, every point matters, and United will aim to deliver a strong midweek performance on the road.
Wednesday’s contest will be the third meeting between United and the Switchbacks FC this year. In their previous two encounters, United secured a home victory in June during the Jagermeister cup, and drew in the first encounter in June. This clash gives United a chance to claim the season series and strengthen their hold on a playoff spot.
Standout Performers: Archimède and Keller
Forward Luther Archimède continues to be a spark for United’s attack, bringing energy, pace, and aerial ability. His late equalizing goal against Monterey Bay highlighted his gift for delivering in clutch moments. The sixth man has contributed two goals in six games off the bench, proving his talent.
Defender Kipp Keller has been a rock at the back for United since arriving, with his calm composure, strength, and sharp defensive instincts. His leadership on the backline and ability to read the game have been crucial in keeping opponents on their toes. His presence will be needed to keep Colorado’s attackers in check.
Milestones in Sight: Tambakis
Goalkeeper Alex Tambakis is on the verge of making USL Championship history, needing just one more clean sheet to become the league’s all-time leader. After recording his 58th career shutout recently—tying the current record held by Evan Newton—Tambakis will have the opportunity to stand alone at the top when United takes the field Wednesday night in Colorado.
About Colorado Springs
The Switchbacks have fought their way into playoff contention with their mix of grit and attacking ability. On the Attacking side Marco Micaletto has been getting it done, leading the team in goals with six. On the back line, Matthew Mahoney provides a physical and clinical presence, leading the Switchbacks in almost every defensive category this season.
Looking Ahead
Following Wednesday’s trip to Colorado, New Mexico United return home hosting Lexington SC on Sunday at 4 PM MT. With the postseason right around the corner, the Black & Yellow remain focused on collecting crucial points and carrying the momentum into October.
Get tickets HERE
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