First Day Hikes Will Kick Off 2023 Around Long Island

LONG ISLAND, NY — Give yourself a fresh start in 2023 with some fresh air, joining thousands of New Yorkers on the 12th annual First Day Hikes. More than 100 state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, canal trails, and public lands will hold events Jan. 1, including 16 in the Hudson Valley.

"First Day Hikes are a family-friendly tradition that offers a fresh seasonal perspective of our state's natural treasures in winter and all there is to do year-round at State Parks," State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said in the announcement. "I encourage New Yorkers to embrace the outdoors this New Year's Day with a fun trek in New York's breathtaking scenic settings."

The hikes typically range from 1 to 5 miles depending on the location and conditions. New for 2023, the statewide celebrations are introducing more hikes along the Genesee Valley Greenway, the New York State Birding Trail, and as part of the On the Canals program, including walks along the Empire State Trail.

Whether you want waterfalls, carriage trails, stately mansions or mountain views, there's something for everyone, including many festivities. For example, Taconic State Park rangers will serve hot chocolate around a bonfire after the 1.5-mile walk to Bash Bish Falls from the Copake Falls Park Office. The hike at Sam's Point will be a snowshoe event, weather permitting.

Here are local participating sites with state officials' suggested way to get more information.

Long Island

• Bethpage State Park, Farmingdale; 516-249-0701
• Connetquot River State Park Preserve, Oakdale; 631-581-1005 (2 hikes)
• Hallock Preserve, Riverhead; 631-315-5475
• Hempstead Lake State Park, West Hempstead; 516-766-1029
• Jones Beach State Park, Wantagh; 516-785-1600
• Montauk Point State Park, Montauk; 631-668-5000
• Ridge Conservation Area, Ridge; 631-444-0350

More about Long Island and First Day Hikes elsewhere in New York, including how to get tickets and register, can be found at this website.

Registration is often required.

"There's no better way to kick off the New Year than with family and friends among the winter beauty of our public parklands and state lands," Gov. Kathy Hochul said in the announcement. "With so many First Day Hikes to choose from around the Empire State, New Yorkers can take a break from the hectic pace of the holidays and find the perfect setting to welcome a bright, optimistic new year."