A New Year’s Day hike could be the first thing on the calendar for Central New Yorkers looking to kick off 2026 outside.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Region 7 announced two free First Day Hike events set for Thursday, Jan. 1, in Chenango County. The guided hikes are part of the statewide First Day Hikes program, now in its 15th year.
The program encourages people to “Get Offline, Get Outside” by celebrating the New Year at public lands across New York. This year’s event includes hikes at more than 115 locations statewide, hosted by DEC, State Parks, and the New York State Canal Corporation.
Bowman Lake and McDonough State Forest hike
One hike will take place at Bowman Lake State Park and McDonough State Forest along the Kopac Trail.
The hike runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will meet at the Nature Center cabin at Bowman Lake State Park, located at 745 Bliven Sherman Road in Oxford.
DEC, State Parks, and the Bullthistle Hiking Club will lead the outing. The Kopac Trail is a five-mile out-and-back route that follows Bowman Lake to Kopac Pond and Whaley Pond. The trail crosses mostly level terrain and passes through forests, wetlands, streams, lakes, and historic features such as old stone walls. Portions of the route connect with the Finger Lakes Trail.
Shorter hike options will be available. Total distances will range from two to seven miles, depending on the selected route.
The terrain is considered gentle to moderate, with some stream crossings. All ages are welcome, and well-behaved pets are allowed on leash. Registration is not required.
DEC advises hikers to dress for winter conditions. Snowshoes or microspikes may be needed if trails are frozen, and hikes may be shortened in severe weather.
Rogers Environmental Education Center walk
A second First Day Hike will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. at DEC’s Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne.
Participants will meet in the main parking lot at the Rogers Visitor Center, located at 2721 State Highway 80. The guided walk will be led by the Friends of Rogers and the Bullthistle Hiking Club.
Hikers can choose between two routes. One option is an easy 1.4-mile loop along Channels Marsh and the Chenango River. The second is a more moderate 1.1-mile loop that includes a climb to the Farm Tower, offering winter views of the valley.
Both trails include Leopold benches where hikers can rest along the way. All ages are welcome, but pets are not allowed on this hike. Registration is not required.
Statewide tradition continues
First Day Hikes take place each year at state parks, historic sites, trails, and other public lands across New York. DEC encourages participants to check details for individual sites, including meeting locations and weather considerations, before attending.
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