Press Releases
12/27/2024
Connecticut Celebrates the New Year with First Day Hikes on Jan 1
In-Person and Self-Guided Hikes at Parks and Forests Across the State of CT, Part of a Nationwide Initiative
(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and its partners are encouraging folks to get outside on New Year’s Day. Walk, hike, and enjoy nature safely on January 1st by joining the many volunteers from the State Park Friends' groups as Connecticut celebrates First Day Hikes, a nationwide initiative to get outdoors.
“A First Day Hike is the perfect way to start off the new year by getting outside with friends and family at one of Connecticut’s picturesque State Parks or Forests. The variety of hikes and walks provide options for families and avid hikers alike to kick off the new year with some fresh air on Connecticut’s iconic hiking trails, which are rated as the best in the country! Thanks to the Passport to the Parks program, parking is free for all Connecticut-registered vehicles, so come explore a State Park or Forest,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes.
Here in Connecticut, both guided and self-guided hikes and programs will be offered FREE at 16 State Park and Forest locations. These include the following sites, but please visit the CT Parks Calendar of Events for updates and new additions. Most of the outings average one to two miles, but can be longer depending on the location:
- American Legion & Peoples State Forest, Barkhamsted
- Auerfarm State Park Scenic Reserve, Bloomfield
- Chatfield Hollow State Park, Killingworth
- Dinosaur State Park, Rocky Hill
- Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, Groton
- Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam
- Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison
- Kellogg Environmental Center, Osbornedale State Park, Derby
- Kettletown State Park, Southbury
- Machimoodus Sunrise State Park, Moodus
- Pachaug State Forest, Griswold
- Scantic River State Park, East Windsor
- Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area, Burlington
- Sherwood Island State Park, Westport
- Sleeping Giant State Park, Hamden
- West Rock Ridge State Park, New Haven
“Getting outside for a hike or walk on January 1, 2025 can be a refreshing and meaningful way to start the new year,” shared Acting State Parks Director, Jeremy Hall. “Stepping out into nature helps reset one’s mind and creates a positive mindset for the year ahead. Join us at one of our Connecticut State Parks or Forests listed above and feel connected to nature in Connecticut.”
America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike or walk at a State Park or Forest close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature, and welcome the New Year with friends and family.
Cold-weather hiking can be fun as long as participants prepare with basic hiking safety tips.
Background of First Day Hikes
The mission of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) and America's State Parks is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health, and economy.
First Day Hikes originated more than 25 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation – a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. America’s State Parks boast a variety of beautiful settings for year-round outdoor recreation, and each First Day Hike offers an opportunity to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures close to home. From Alaska to Florida, hikers can climb hills and mountain tops, walk along ponds and beaches, and traverse trails through forests, fields, and prairies.
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110