Washington D.C. - America's State Parks announced that all 50 state park systems will provide free, guided First Day Hike Programs on New Year’s Day 2012. Families can begin the New Year connecting with the outdoors by taking a First Day Hike on January 1, 2012 at a state park. Families welcome the New Year by enjoying the outdoors together.
“What better way to kick off the New Year than with a hike at a state park?” asks Ruth Coleman, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). “Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle, for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.”
“Studies have proven that getting outdoors is one good way to relax and recharge the body, mind and spirit,” says Phil McNelly, NASPD’s Executive Director. “We hope that hiking along a trail in a state park will become part of an individual’s or family’s regular exercise routine.”
First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a Massachusetts state park located in Milton. The program was created to promote year round recreation at state parks and healthy lifestyles. Since then, many other states have provided outdoor recreation programs on New Year’s Day and this is the first time all 50 state park systems have coordinated First Day Hikes.
State park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles depending on the park. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length are available on the America’s State Parks website. Visit http://www.americasstateparks.org/first-day-hikes and select your desired state to find a First Day Hike nearest you.
