There is something powerful about beginning a new year outdoors. On January 1, 2026, New Yorkers are invited to step into the year with intention, fresh air, and movement through the 15th annual First Day Hikes program. Organized by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, alongside New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Canal Corporation, this statewide tradition transforms New Year’s Day into a celebration of public lands, wellness, and winter beauty.
Across Long Island, state parks, historic preserves, wildlife areas, and conservation lands will host guided and self guided hikes designed for all ages and ability levels. Distances range from short, scenic strolls to longer treks that allow hikers to set the pace that feels right for them. For many, these hikes have become a ritual, a meaningful way to reset after the holidays and begin the year grounded in nature.
Winter hiking offers a different lens on familiar landscapes. Bare trees open up views usually hidden by foliage, animal tracks tell quiet stories along the trail, and coastal parks reveal dramatic skies and active wildlife. For longtime hikers and first timers alike, First Day Hikes offer an accessible entry point into year round outdoor recreation on Long Island.
Why First Day Hikes Matter
Starting the year with a walk through nature sets a tone that carries forward. These hikes encourage physical movement without pressure, connection without distraction, and reflection without isolation. Families walk together, neighbors meet neighbors, and individuals carve out space to breathe and reset…