Get Outside: Free 'First Day Hikes' Across CT On New Year's Day

CONNECTICUT — Those looking to get an early and healthy start to the new year can do so with free hikes at 16 state parks across Connecticut on Jan. 1.

The annual First Day Hike Program — in its 34th year — will take place at state parks from Madison to Moodus, and Barkhamsted to Bloomfield. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and its partners are encouraging residents to get outside on New Year’s Day and take advantage of the national holiday.

"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!" 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 (possible updates here.) 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

Cold-weather hiking can be fun as long as participants prepare with basic hiking safety tips, DEEP advises.