Governor Kathy Hochul has invited New Yorkers to begin 2026 by participating in the annual First Day Hikes program. On January 1, residents will have the chance to take part in free hikes at state parks, historic sites, canal trails, environmental education centers, and other public lands throughout New York. The event marks the 15th year of the initiative and offers options for people of all experience levels at 117 locations.
“Kick off the New Year in the great outdoors and put your mental and physical wellness first by joining our fellow New Yorkers for First Day Hikes,” Governor Hochul said. “A fantastic and affordable tradition, this special event allows us to find comfort in the winter beauty of our public lands while also creating opportunities to connect with our communities, friends, and families, distraction free.”
The program is organized through a partnership among the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and the Canal Corporation. To support participation during the holiday season, parking fees at state parks and sites will be waived on January 1.
New York State Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser stated: “First Day Hikes offer a welcome break from the holiday rush and a chance to reconnect with nature and one another. This annual event encourages you to refocus on your mental and physical well-being and start the New Year on a healthy, positive note. Ring in 2026 by getting offline, getting outside, and exploring New York’s state parks and historic sites on January 1.”
DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton added: “Participating in a First Day Hike is a great and affordable way to get offline and get outside to experience winter recreation in New York State. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s commitment to accessible outdoor recreation opportunities for all New Yorkers, DEC and State Parks are once again kicking off the New Year with guided hike opportunities on public lands on January 1. Connect with nature and join us at more than 110 events at State Parks, environmental education centers, campgrounds, wildlife management areas across the state.”
Brian U. Stratton from the Canal Corporation said: “We encourage everyone to join a First Day Hike and are thrilled that our partners at the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation are organizing this wonderful event to start the new year once again. This year, we’re offering two exciting, inclusive experiences in Palmyra and Macedon – the heart of the Erie Canal. People of all abilities and fitness levels are encouraged to get outside, get moving, and start 2026 on the right foot.”
The First Day Hikes program supports Governor Hochul’s Get Offline, Get Outside initiative. This effort encourages children and families across New York to reduce screen time in favor of outdoor activities that promote both mental health and physical activity.
Most hikes offered as part of this event are suitable for beginners or families; they typically range from one to five miles depending on location or trail conditions. Over 125 individual hikes will be available this year across various public lands including state parks, DEC natural areas, canal trails, historic sites as well as environmental education centers.
Hiking is included among activities promoted by DEC’s Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge aimed at addressing youth mental health issues by motivating teens toward engaging outdoor experiences.
Many hikes are led with support from ‘Friends’ groups who help steward state lands along with other partners statewide. For this year’s event DEC has partnered with organizations such as The New York State Outdoor Guides Association (NYSOGA) which represents guides throughout New York offering several guided hiking experiences led by licensed professionals.
A full list of locations for First Day Hikes along with details about each site can be found online via resources provided by State Parks or DEC websites; some locations may require advance registration.
First Day Hikes originated in Massachusetts in 1992 before becoming a national event held annually across all fifty states. While certain locations host organized group activities most public lands remain open throughout winter including on January 1st.
The Office of Parks oversees more than 250 recreational facilities statewide serving over 88 million visitors annually; further information is available at parks.ny.gov or through their mobile app.
DEC manages five million acres of public land including extensive trail networks within Adirondack & Catskill preserves as well as numerous campgrounds & day-use areas.
