New York is kicking off 2026 with a fresh-air tradition that stretches from Niagara Falls to the Finger Lakes and beyond. For the 15th year in a row, First Day Hikes will return on January 1, offering free guided walks and outdoor events at more than 115 parks, historic sites, trails, forests, and environmental centers across the state.
The program is part of New York’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative, aimed at encouraging families to unplug from screens and reconnect with nature—especially in the winter months.
From Taughannock Falls in Trumansburg to the Erie Canal trails in Palmyra and Macedon, the Finger Lakes region will host several of these hikes, all designed to support mental and physical well-being.
A tradition rooted in wellness and accessibility
Most First Day Hikes are beginner and family-friendly, ranging from one to five miles depending on location and trail conditions. And to keep things affordable during the holidays, New York is waiving parking fees at participating state parks and sites on January 1.
“This annual event encourages you to refocus on your mental and physical well-being and start the New Year on a healthy, positive note,” said State Parks Acting Commissioner Kathy Moser.
Guided hikes across the Finger Lakes and beyond
Local options include:
- Taughannock Falls State Park (Trumansburg) – Two guided hikes available
- Seneca Lake State Park (Geneva) – Family-friendly walk
- Montezuma Audubon Center (Savannah) – Registration required
- Sugar Hill and Italy Hill State Forests (Watkins Glen, Italy) – DEC-led hikes
- Catharine Valley Trail (Watkins Glen) – Self-guided or group options
- Fillmore Glen State Park (Moravia) – Nature-focused hike
- Newtown Battlefield (Elmira) and Two Rivers State Park (Waverly) – Additional Southern Tier opportunities
A complete list of hikes is available at parks.ny.gov and on the websites for the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and New York State Canals.
A statewide effort to promote outdoor health
The event is a collaboration between the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, DEC, and the Canal Corporation, with support from local “Friends” groups and licensed outdoor guides. Many hikes are also accessible to people of all abilities.
“Start the year on the right foot—literally,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “These hikes are a great and affordable way to experience winter recreation and connect with nature across New York State.”
The First Day Hikes are also part of the Get Offline, Get Outside Challenge, a DEC initiative that encourages youth to step away from screens and explore the outdoors through hiking, fishing, camping, and other activities.
National roots, local impact
First Day Hikes began in Massachusetts in 1992 and are now a national tradition observed in all 50 states. While organized hikes are scheduled at specific sites, New York’s public lands remain open statewide on New Year’s Day for self-guided adventures.
“Find comfort in the winter beauty of our public lands,” said Governor Kathy Hochul, encouraging residents to make wellness part of their New Year tradition.
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