First Day Hikes

Are you looking to ring in the New Year with a new adventure?

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide program led by America’s State Parks. Free guided hikes are being offered by state parks in all 50 states to encourage hikers of all ages to get outside. In 2019, America’s State Parks reported that nearly 28,000 people hiked over 66,000 miles to celebrate the New Year. Whether you’re hitting the trails in New York or New Jersey, there are First Day hikes being held throughout the region to get you outside and connecting with nature. So find your trail and get outside this New Year's Day!

New York

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation are hosting more than 75 sponsored hikes being held at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, and trails across New York. Local hikes include:

• Overlook Mountain in Catskill Park
• Peter’s Kill in Minnewaska State Park Preserve
• Saw Mill River Audubon in Rockefeller State Park Preserve
• Sterling Lake in Sterling Forest State Park

To find and sign up for a New York First Day Hike near you, click here.

New Jersey

The New Jersey State Park Service is hosting 22 guided hikes, 2 mountain bike rides, 1 horseback ride, and 1 lighthouse climb in state parks, forests, and historic sites across New Jersey. Local hikes include:

• Appalachian Trail in High Point State Park
• Ringwood State Park
• Kittatinny Valley State Park

To find and sign up for a New Jersey First Day Hike near you, click here.

The Trail Conference maintains 2,165 miles of trails throughout the region--so there's a good chance you've enjoyed a trail cared for by our volunteers. Support their efforts today by becoming a member or donating to our mission. Or find out how to become a volunteer yourself!