First Day hikes have become a popular and healthy way to start the New Year. While you can always do your own hike, every state here in the Northeast offers guided hikes on January 1, which makes it a family- and beginner-friendly way to experience the outdoors, or to share a favorite activity with like-minded people.
Here is a rundown of First Day hikes throughout the Northeast. You usually have to register ahead of time for most guided hikes, so visit each state’s website for more information.
Maine will host guided hikes at Holbrook Island Sanctuary in Brooksville, Mount Blue State Park in Weld, and Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. They also offer self-guided hike guides for six other state parks. Learn more.
New Hampshire is offering guided hikes at seven state parks, including White Lake State Park, Monadnock State Park, and Bear Brook State Park. Learn more.
Vermont will host 11 guided hikes throughout the state, including at Willoughby State Forest, Mount Mansfield State Forest, and Groton State Forest. Learn more.
Massachusetts will offer more than a dozen guided hikes throughout the state, from Middlesex Fells Reservation and Blue Hills Reservation in the eastern part of the state out to Mount Greylock State Reservation in the Berkshires. Learn more.
Rhode Islanders can kick off the New Year with a guided First Day Hike at George Washington State Campground in Chepachet. Learn more.
Connecticut will host five guided hikes on January 1, including at Gillette Castle State Park, Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area, and Dinosaur State Park. Learn more.
New York will host more than 20 guided hikes throughout the state, from Long Island to the Catskills and Adirondacks, all the way out to parks near Lake Erie. Learn more.
New Jersey will feature nearly 30 guided hikes on January 1, with hikes ranging from a strenuous climb at High Point State Park to gentle hikes at Island Beach State Park and Parvin State Park, and even a dog-specific hike at Belleplain State Forest. Learn more.
More than 40 guided First Day hikes will take place in Pennsylvania, including at Laurel Ridge State Park, Vosburg Neck State Park, and Buchanan State Forest. Learn more.