HARRISBURG, Pa. (EYT) – The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) announced on Wednesday it will host more than 70 guided hikes in 46 state parks and one forest district on New Year’s Day, as part of the nationwide “First Day Hike” initiative.
These guided hikes, all taking place on Wednesday, January 1, help promote a healthy start in the new year while offering every Pennsylvanian an opportunity to forge new and stronger connections with the outdoors.
“First Day Hikes are the perfect way to start the year by immersing yourself in Pennsylvania’s natural spaces,” said DCNR Secretary Dunn. “This year, we’re encouraging everyone to connect with our public lands — whether that means discovering programs at our state parks, exploring new outdoor activities, or uncovering the rich history preserved within our landscapes. Let’s make 2025 a year of connection and exploration.”
DCNR staff and forest staff, as well as volunteers lead the hikes, which are usually about one or two miles. Some hikes can be longer depending on the park and its terrain.
The following Pennsylvania state park and forest locations are participating during daylight hours on January 1, 2025:
- Bald Eagle State Park
- Beltzville State Park
- Big Elk Creek State Park
- Black Moshannon State Park
- Blue Knob State Park
- Buchanan State Forest
- Caledonia State Park
- Canoe Creek State Park
- Chapman State Park
- Codorus State Park
- Cook Forest State Park
- Cowans Gap State Park
- Delaware Canal State Park
- French Creek State Park
- Gifford Pinchot State Park
- Greenwood Furnace State Park
- Hills Creek State Park
- Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center
- Kings Gap Environmental Education Center
- Kinzua Bridge State Park
- Lackawanna State Park
- Laurel Hill State Park
- Lehigh Gorge State Park
- Little Buffalo State Park
- Lyman Run State Park
- Marsh Creek State Park
- Maurice K. Goddard State Park
- Moraine State Park
- Nescopeck State Park
- Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center
- Ohiopyle State Park
- Parker Dam State Park
- Pine Grove Furnace State Park
- Point State Park
- Prince Gallitzin State Park
- Pymatuning State Park
- Raccoon Creek State Park
- RB Winter State Park
- Ridley Creek State Park
- Sinnemahoning State Park
- Susquehannock State Park
- Tyler State Park
- Vosburg Neck State Park
- Warriors Path State Park
- Washington Crossing Historic Park
- Whipple Dam State Park
- White Clay Creek Preserve
As a part of Mosaic, the department’s initiative to create a more inclusive environment in outdoor spaces, and in response to survey data identifying challenges and equity concerns, DCNR is hosting Mosaic hikes at several parks. Learn more about First Day Hike events on DCNR’s website, where you can filter hikes by various audiences, including families, seniors, and pet-friendly options. Hikers are invited to share their experience on social media using #FirstDayHikes.
First Day Hikes are organized by the National Association of State Park Directors to promote healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks. All 50 states have cooperatively sponsored First Day Hikes since 2012. Visit America’s State Parks website for more information on First Day Hikes nationally.
In addition to First Day Hikes, many Pennsylvania state parks also have self-guided hikes, story walks, and adventure labs available in all four seasons. More information is available on DCNR’s website or DCNR’s Calendar of Events.