The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) last week announced that it will hold more than 50 free, guided hikes in 37 state parks on New Year’s Day as part of the national “First Day Hike” effort.
The idea behind these hikes is to help families get a healthier start to the new year and provide opportunities to get back to basics and reconnect with nature.
“First Day Hikes are a great way to make a resolution to enjoy nature and get more exercise and keep it on the first day of the year,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “They also help remind people that our state parks and forests are open for healthy outdoor adventures in all four seasons, including winter. Consider taking [a] hike and spending time outdoors to start the 2022.”
Volunteers and staff from the state parks guide the hikes, typically about one or two miles. However, they could be longer based on the terrain of the park.
The following Pennsylvania state parks are participating on January 1, 2022:
Beltzville, Black Moshannon, Caledonia, Canoe Creek, Codorus, Cook Forest, Cowans Gap, Delaware Canal, French Creek, Gifford Pinchot, Hills Creek, Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, Kings Gap Environmental Education Center, Kinzua Bridge, Lackawanna, Laurel Hill, Laurel Ridge, Little Buffalo, Lyman Run, Maurice K. Goddard, Moraine, Nescopeck, Nolde Forest, Environmental Education Center, Ohiopyle, Parker Dam, Pine Grove Furnace, Point, Presque Isle, Prince Gallitzin, Pymatuning, Raccoon Creek, RB Winter, Ridley Creek, Shawnee, Sinnemahoning, Trough Creek.
First Day Hikes are organized by the National Association of State Park Directors to promote healthy lifestyles throughout the year and all-year-round recreational activities at state parks. All 50 states have co-sponsored First Day Hikes since 2012.
America’s State Parks provide havens for young and old alike to discover the tranquility and beauty of nature through outdoor recreation,” National Association of State Park Directors Executive Director Lewis Ledford said. “Hiking offers inspiring ways to improve your physical and mental health while exploring beautiful public lands in every state.”
Additional details can be found at www.dcnr.state.pa.us.
Did you know there are awesome guided hikes happening to kick off the new year? It’s a chance to be surrounded by nature’s beauty and connect with the outdoors. You’ll walk scenic trails led by friendly staff, making it a fantastic way to start the year fresh!