White Mountains. (Via Getty Images)
What if you welcomed the new year—in pure New Hampshire style—by participating in First Day hikes?
A longstanding tradition organized by the New Hampshire State Parks, first day hikes invite individuals and families to embrace the outdoors with self-guided hikes on Jan. 1.
Whether you’re bringing family, a group of friends, or just your furry friend along, start the new year with these adventurous hikes and experience the grandeur of New Hampshire’s natural beauty. You can register on the NH State Parks website.
Join park staff and the Seacoast Science Center for a self-guided hike in Rye. Trail options include a 3-mile Odiorne Point Loop Trail that takes visitors to World War II fortifications. The hike begins at noon and ends at 3 p.m.
Maintained by the Nansen Ski Club, Milan Hill State Park is not only open for those willing to hike trails, but also for cross country skiers and those wanting to snowshoe. Hot drinks and snacks will be offered upon return from your adventures! The event will begin at noon and end at 3 p.m.
This 3-mile guided hike will take visitors along the Parker Trail to the Little Mountain Viewpoint in Jaffrey. The hike will take you around the base of Mt. Monadnock, and will roughly take two hours to complete, following a flat terrain. The event will begin at noon and end at 3 p.m.
Added to the list of ‘First Day Hikes’ this year, the Pawtuckaway State Park hike in Nottingham will follow a scenic 0.5-mile trail, where visitors can check out wildlife. The overall trail is approximately 2 miles. The event will begin at noon and end at 3 p.m.
A newly introduced ‘First Day’ hike, the Northwood Meadows State Park offers an accessible 0.5-mile trail that guides participants through the heart of the park, along with a more extensive 2.5-mile Lake Trail. Dogs must be leashed at all times on this hike. Snacks and warm beverages will be served at the end of the hiking journey! The event will begin at noon and end at 3 p.m.
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