Start The New Year With A Hike At Scantic River State Park

EAST WINDSOR, CT — Residents looking to start the new year outdoors are invited to lace up their boots and hit the trail on New Year’s Day for a guided community hike in Broad Brook.

The East Windsor American Heritage River Commission will host its 16th annual First Day Hike on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at Scantic River State Park.

The hike will kick off at 1 p.m. at the park entrance located at 100 Melrose Road. Organizers encourage participants to dress appropriately for winter weather and wear proper footwear for trail conditions.

In addition to the hike, attendees can warm up afterward with hot chocolate and a warming barrel. Donations will also be collected for a local food pantry, with organizers accepting both human and pet food items.

The annual New Year’s Day hike has become a local tradition, offering residents a chance to get outside, enjoy the Scantic River corridor, and begin the year with a healthy, community-focused activity.

For more information, residents can contact the American Heritage River Commission by email at ahriver@sbcglobal.net or visit the group on Facebook.