2021 First Day Hikes

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

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the First Day Hikes program.

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. Last year, America’s State Parks reported that nearly 55,000 people hiked over 133,000 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 (NYSDEC) are hosting more than 75 sponsored hikes being held at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, and trails across New York.

NYSDEC Protocols: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and requirements for safe outdoor recreation, the event options for hikes range from self-guided treks to small staff or volunteer-led hikes allowing participants the time and space to social distance while still enjoying nature's winter wonders.

Local hikes include:

• Five Rivers Environmental Education Center
• Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
• Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve at Little Stony Point
• John Jay Homestead State Historic Site
• Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Lake Minnewaska and Beacon Hill
• Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park at Croton Reservoir + Dam (First + second day hikes)
• Red Hill Fire Tower in the Catskills
• Rockefeller State Park Preserve
• Sam's Point Area of Minnewaska State Park Preserve
• Sterling Forest State Park
• Taconic State Park at Copake Falls Area
• Tivoli Bays

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

New Jersey 

Start a new tradition, plan a “household hike” on January 1 to kick off 2021 on the right foot!

While the New Jersey State Park Service has canceled all organized First Day Hikes to ring in 2021, we encourage you to get outdoors and visit a nearby park with your close family and friends.

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 these efforts today by becoming a member or donating to our mission. Or find out how to become a volunteer yourself!