DCNR Hosts First Day Hikes On New Year’s Day Across The Commonwealth

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is inviting residents and visitors to begin the new year outdoors by participating in more than 60 free, guided First Day Hikes taking place across Pennsylvania on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, 2026, as part of the nationwide First Day Hike initiative.

A full list of PA events is available here.

The hikes will be held in 49 state parks and three forest districts, offering participants an easy and healthy way to kick off the new year while exploring Pennsylvania’s public lands. 

Most guided hikes range from one to two miles, with some longer options depending on terrain and location.

“First Day Hikes are a fun and welcoming way for people of all ages and abilities to experience Pennsylvania’s state parks and forests,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “They’re a great opportunity to connect with nature, meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and start the year off on a healthy note.”

DCNR staff and trained volunteers will lead the hikes during daylight hours. A variety of options are available, including family-friendly, senior-friendly, and pet-friendly hikes. 

All of Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks and 2.2 million acres of state forest land are free and open to the public year-round.

Participating locations span every region of the Commonwealth, including popular destinations such as Ohiopyle State Park, Presque Isle State Park, Cook Forest State Park, Point State Park, and Delaware Canal State Park, among many others. 

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by the National Association of State Park Directors to promote healthy lifestyles and year-round recreation in state parks. 

Pennsylvania has participated in the program since its inception, alongside all 50 states. 

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using #FirstDayHikes.

In addition to First Day Hikes, many Pennsylvania state parks also have self-guided hikes, story walks, and adventure labs available in all four seasons. 

Click Here for more details and the DCNR announcement.

Visit Explore PA Trails and Get Outdoors PA for recreation areas near you.

Visit the PA Parks & Forests Foundation’s Events webpage and DCNR’s Calendar of Events for activities happening near you.

  For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit DCNR’s website.  Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter.

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[Posted: December 21, 2025]  PA Environment Digest