Owensville, Mo. — January 1, 2026
The start of 2026 was marked by a milestone moment for outdoor enthusiasts and trail supporters as hikers gathered in Owensville for the first-ever First Day Hike on a newly opened section of Rock Island Trail State Park.
Organized by Missouri State Parks, the New Year’s Day event was part of a statewide initiative encouraging Missourians to kick off the year by getting outside and enjoying one of the state’s 93 state parks and historic sites. The First Day Hike program is promoted nationally by America’s State Parks and takes place in parks across the country each January 1.
Approximately 80 hikers turned out in Owensville to celebrate the opening of this newest segment of the Rock Island Trail. Participants were welcomed by Missouri State Parks Deputy Director Justin Adams, who was joined by Ron Bench, Coordinator of Rock Island Trail State Park, along with members of the Friends of Rock Island Trail State Park (FoRIT), State Representative Bruce Sassmann, and many other trail and outdoor enthusiasts.
Following the hike, the City of Owensville opened City Hall to welcome participants with hot chocolate and cookies, providing a warm and festive gathering place on a cold January morning. The hospitality underscored the strong local support for the Rock Island Trail and its growing role as a community and regional asset.
FoRIT members noted that the event symbolized years of collaboration among Missouri State Parks, local leaders, volunteers, and trail advocates working to bring the Rock Island Trail to life.
With the first footprints for 2026 now officially on the Owensville segment, organizers say the First Day Hike served not only as a New Year’s celebration, but also as a glimpse of the trail’s future—connecting communities, promoting outdoor recreation, and creating lasting economic and quality-of-life benefits across central Missouri.