Looking forward to a fresh start in 2025? Plan for something fun on New Year’s Day.
Celebrate the new year outside with a First Day Hike at one of the many events being held across the state and nation.
The Department of Environmental Conservation, The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (state parks), and the Canal Corporation invite New Yorkers to kickoff 2025 by participating in one of the many hikes being held at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, trails, and public lands across the Empire State.
The 14th annual event includes a variety of staff, partner and volunteer-led hikes, ranging from mountain climbs, cross-country skis, leisurely strolls along birding trails, and so much more. Some locations offer multiple hike options, allowing people the time and space to enjoy nature’s winter wonders.
Hikes are planned at DEC state lands, state parks and historic sites, wildlife areas, forest preserve trails, canal trails and towpaths, and environmental education centers. All DEC walks and hikes are free, and most are family-friendly, typically ranging from one to five miles, depending on the location and conditions.
Many New Yorkers thrive in winter and are eager for falling temperatures and consistent snowfalls. To these hardy adventurers, a few extra layers of gear combined with the snowy terrain of parklands is a winning recipe for fitness, togetherness, and outdoor fun. If you’ve never been on a First Day Hike, save the date and get out there!
Check out the state parks website and the Canal Corporation’s website for listings of First Day Hikes being offered.
Join the Catskill Mountain Club for its First Day Hike to Tremper Mountain. This is a 7.6-mile out-and-back route with an elevation gain of about 1500 feet. Tremper features a fire tower at its summit. For those looking to complete the 2025 Catskills Fire Tower Challenge (coordinated by NYSDEC) this will be a great start.
Difficulty Level: Moderate/difficult. This will be a brisk-paced hike ~ 2+mph. Hikers should be experienced in ascending and descending in winter conditions for about four hours. While there is no age minimum for this hike, the group will stay together and generally adhere to the pace and time noted above.
Special Instructions: Bring lunch/ snacks, water/ sports drink, proper winter clothing/ layers, sturdy winter hiking shoes, microspikes, snowshoes (to the trailhead at least), and hiking poles (optional). Lunch/break will be had at the fire tower. No pets are allowed on this hike.
Registration Required: Email Peter Manning at Peter@catskillmountainclub.org by Monday, Dec. 30.
