Gov. Kathy Hochul urges New Yorkers to spend time outdoors and celebrate the New Year at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, canal trails, and public lands across the state on Jan. 1, 2023 through the First Day Hike program.

 

The program is offering 100 varied hike options. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Canal Corporation are partnering to host the many walks and hikes being held through the program. 

 

"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," Hochul stated. "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."

 

The walks and hikes are family-friendly, and typically range from one to five miles depending on the location and conditions.  

 

New for 2023, the statewide celebrations are introducing additional hikes along the Genesee Valley Greenway, the New York State Birding Trail, and four new hikes as part of the On the Canals program, including walks along the Empire State Trail.

 

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "Participating in any of these popular First Day Hikes is a great way to start the New Year and experience New York's outdoor destinations. DEC is proud to partner with State Parks to help New Yorkers of all ages and abilities participate in this growing annual tradition, which brings friends and families together to enjoy our natural resources and the great outdoors."

 

Hikes in the immediate region include: 

 

For more information, and to find out about all hikes planned statewide, visit: https://parks.ny.gov/events/first-day-hikes.aspx.