Anyone who wants to get the new year off on the right foot is invited to take a hike, and D.C.-area parks are offering opportunities for some “first day hikes.”
While many of the hikes take place on New Year’s Day, there are also New Year’s Eve options, where hikers can register for a ranger-led outing or a self-guided hike.
Maryland and Virginia park agencies and departments have highlighted events in their parks taking place on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, but hikers can enjoy the local parks during the weekend.
Maryland
A 3.5-mile hike with a ranger is scheduled at Patuxent River State Park in Brookeville on New Year’s Day. It’s described as a moderate hike and kicks off at 10 a.m. Preregistration is recommended.
At Cedarville State Forest in Brandywine, visitors can join a ranger for an easy 1.25-mile hike. Registration is not required.
Hikers looking to sharpen their observational skills and take part in a search for “mammal-mania” may want to head to the Marsh Trail at Chapman State Park, where they can pick up a sheet for a scavenger hunt and keep track of the wildlife they spot along the way. The hike is described as “moderate” at 2.5 miles.
One event recommends you bring your own horse. A ranger will lead a trail ride at Rosaryville State Park in Upper Marlboro on New Year’s Day morning starting at 10 a.m. While there, be sure to check out the newly designated 187-acre “Rutherford Area,” named in honor of Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford. The two-term Lt. Governor made it his goal to visit every Maryland State Park while in office.
For more information on First Hike registration, access to restrooms, whether trails are suitable for strollers or wheelchairs and more, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website.
Virginia
In Virginia, park departments in Northern Virginia have a selection of “first day hike” activities, from guided to self-guided ones.
Prince William County is offering a 3-mile hike at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park starting at 1 p.m. on Jan. 1.
In Fairfax County, there are programs for a sunrise and sunset hike on Jan. 1 at Burke Lake Park. The county is also holding a photo contest for photos taken during First Hike Fairfax.
Virginia State Parks are also participating in the First Day Hikes, which is an initiative of America’s State Park.
From 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Mason Neck Park in Lorton, there will be several hiking activities for children and adults of all abilities.
Sky Meadows State Park in Delaplane will also have hikes along pollinator meadows, as well as on trails that give “rolling mountain views.”
You can find out what programs are available or where to go on Jan. 1 for your first hike of the year by visiting the Virginia State Parks website.
