Celebrate the New Year by going on a hike with your dog!  On January 1, 2018 State Parks across the country will be participating in First Day Hikes.  So start off the New Year on the right paw by going on an outdoor adventure.  Throughout the day, park rangers, naturalists and volunteers will be sharing their knowledge of each park’s unique features and history.  Last year nearly 55,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 133,000 miles throughout the country on the guided hikes, and many others explored State Park trails throughout the day on their own.

The guided hikes are free!  To find a participating State Park near you, please visit First Day Hikes.  There you will find an interactive map listing all the activities in your area.  Most of these events are dog friendly, requiring dogs to be on leash.  However, before heading out be sure to check the individual listings, because there are a few that dogs are not allowed.  And don’t forget to share your adventure on social media with #FirstDayHikes!

Guided Dog Friendly First Day Hikes (please check local listings for times and specific details):

MAINE: Sebago Lake State Park, Casco; Bradbury Mountain, Pownal; Wolf’s Neck, Freeport; Lily Bay, Greenville

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Silver Lake State Park, Hollis; Wellington State Park, Bristol; Milan Hill, Milan; Pisgah, Winchester;

MASSACHUSETTS: Blue Hills Reservation, Milton; Great Falls Discovery Center, Turner Falls; Blackstone River and Canal State Park, Uxbridge

VERMONT: Quechee State Park, Quechee; Underhill Park, Underhill; Little River, Waterbury; Smuggler’s Notch, Jeffersonville; Molly Stark State Park, Wilmington

[Editor’s Note: Please use extreme caution if your neck of the woods is experiencing this deep freeze on New Year’s Day!]