Winter Hikers Flock to Sandy Point State Park on New Year's Day

On Jan. 1, Sandy Point State Park will be a destination for Maryland outdoorsmen in the third-annual First Day Hike event, organized by the National Association of State Parks.

The Annapolis-based park is a year-round destination for hikers, as it shares a choice shoreline with the Chesapeake Bay. 

The First Day Hike in 2013 brought more than 22,000 participants nationwide, covering 44,000 miles in 700 state parks across the country, according to a release.

All 50 states are participating in the third-annual event that invites families and friends to celebrate the New Year with the sights, sounds and wonder of the natural world with fun, guided hikes.

“These family-friendly outings provide a great chance to get outside and experience the beauty of our parks, stay fit and build lasting traditions with loved ones," said Priscilla Geigis, president of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD).    

On a First Day Hike, visitors enjoy exciting 1- to 2-mile journeys through diverse, beautiful natural areas, led by park rangers and volunteers. Many hikes include additional activities such as campfires, s’mores, crafts, costume contests and storytelling. America's State Parks and American Hiking Society are teaming up to promote First Day Hikes as a healthy and memorable way to start the New Year.  

"Winter hiking is a fun and wonderful experience, but does require all hikers to be properly prepared," noted Gregory Miller, president of American Hiking Society. "We are encouraging Americans young and old to ring in the New Year by putting on their hiking boots and joining First Day Hikes in support of state parks and trails in 2014." 

For helpful cold weather hiking tips, visit the American Hiking Society’s website. 

All participants are encouraged to log their First Day Hike adventures on social media with #firstdayhikes. 

For a complete list of First Day Hikes in Maryland, including locations, difficulty, length and specific starting times, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.