First Day Hikes 2021

Start your new year off on the right foot, participate in the growing trend known as first day hikes! 

First Day Hikes is a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks, a non-profit under the name of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). The mission of this Association is “to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance.” Get a jumpstart on the new year and take part in this unique way to spend time outdoors and with family and friends. 

On January 1, 2021 due to COVID-19, there will be free hiking experiences including virtual, self-guided, and small social distance group events at state parks across the country. Adults and children alike are encouraged to explore on the first day of the year, find a state park, and to join in on the initiative and fun! 

Last year, more than 55,000 people started out their new year by collectively hiking over 133,000 miles on guided hikes alone. In the Chesapeake Bay area, there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails through dozens of state, local, and national parks. 

Every state park system throughout the Chesapeake Bay watershed has information dedicated to the nationwide initiative. 

Find your state below and learn about what special things each state is doing to celebrate the New Year and safely find your Chesapeake!

If you participate in a socially distanced event, whether it is virtual, or in a park, we would love to see your pictures or learn about where you went to start your year! Tag us on social media using #FindYourChesapeake 

Delaware
Maryland
New York
Pennsylvania  Note: Out of state visitor notice
West Virginia