DCNR Hosts First Day Hikes at Pennsylvania State Parks on New Year's Day
HARRISBURG — To promote a healthy start to the new year, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) officials will be joining hikers at several parks across the state as DCNR again sponsors free, guided hikes in 29 state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states.
“Our First Day Hikes help remind people that our state parks and forests are open for healthy outdoor adventures in all four seasons, including winter,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn said. “They are a great way to make a resolution to enjoy nature and get more exercise, and keep it on the first day of the year.”
Presque Isle State Park and Jennings Environmental Education Center are offering New Year’s Eve or “Last Night” hikes for those who wish to ring in the New Year mid-hike. These easy hikes, spanning one to three miles, begin at 10:30 p.m. on December 31 and conclude around 12:30 a.m. on January 1. “Last year, we hosted over 700 participants who hiked more than 1,793 miles in our state parks across the Pennsylvania,” Dunn said. “Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of Pennsylvania’s state parks on New Year’s Day!”