What better way to start off the new year than to take in some nature with a hike? It’s never too cold to get out and enjoy the beauty that New York state has to offer.
Join one of the more than 75 sponsored hikes being held at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas and trails across the Empire State. The guided hikes are being hosted by New York State Parks and the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) as part of the 8th annual First Day Hikes program taking place throughout the nation.
In New York, First Day Hikes are being offered at 51 state parks and historic sites, and 19 DEC wildlife areas, trails and environmental educations centers. Staff from State Parks and DEC, along with volunteers at many sites, will lead these family-friendly walks and hikes, which range from one to five miles depending on the location and conditions.
A sample of this year’s programs include a seal walk, a walking history tour, a snowshoe waterfall hike, pet-friendly treks, gorge walks, military musicology, canal towpath walk, and more. New entries for 2019 include hikes along Lake Ontario, Delta Lake, and Lake Champlain, and recently added trails at Overlook Mountain in Woodstock.
If weather conditions permit, some First Day Hikes may include snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. The map below includes the full event locations and details. Many of the hikes are also featured in the First Day Hikes event list.
Many host parks require pre-registration so call ahead.