Walk Into 2025 With First Day Hikes At Island Beach, Double Trouble

BERKELEY, NJ — Start off the new year on the right foot - literally - with a free, guided First Day Hike at one of New Jersey's state parks on Jan. 1, 2025.

The State Park Service is offering more than 30 hikes at skill levels from beginner to advanced, giving people of all abilities a chance to get outdoors and enhance their physical and mental well-being by experiencing nature.

“Hikers of all abilities have a variety of opportunities to enjoy our state parks and forests year-round, whether trekking through rugged, wooded areas, enjoying urban green spaces or exploring coastal marshlands,” Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette said. “From High Point to Cape May, this is a great time of year to see New Jersey’s diverse environment while spending time outdoors with family and friends.”

Locally, hikes are happening at Island Beach State Park and Double Trouble State Park. Both of these are beginner friendly.

Nearly 2,000 hikers participated in First Day Hikes on Jan. 1, 2024, collectively traveling 5,000 miles.

Take a scenic 1.5-mile walk along the Atlantic Ocean and enjoy Island Beach State Park’s natural beauty. Following the hike, join the Friends of Island Beach State Park for a bonfire and s’mores on the beach, weather permitting. Hikers will meet at 1 p.m. and leashed dogs are welcome. Registration is required at the Friends of Island Beach State Park’s website.

Or, enjoy a similarly scenic 1.5-mile walk along the Mill Pond Trail and beautiful waters of Cedar Creek at Double Trouble State Park. The morning ends with a walk through the historic village. Hikers will meet at 10 a.m. Service animals only. Registration required by visiting Eventbrite.

“Kickstart the new year immersed in the outdoors and history by joining a knowledgeable guide on a hike in one of New Jersey’s state parks, forests or historic sites and experience the amazing spaces that the Garden State has to offer,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites. “First Day Hikes provide the opportunity to reconnect, rejuvenate and set a positive tone for the year ahead.”