Kick off 2025 with these 5 ‘first day’ NH hikes

White Mountains. (Via Getty Images)

By Mrinali Dhembla

December 18, 2024

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.

Odiorne Point State Park

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.

Milan Hill State Park

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.

Monadnock State Park

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.

Pawtuckaway State Park

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.

Northwood Meadows State Park

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.

Author

Mrinali Dhembla

Based in Manchester, Mrinali Dhembla is Granite Post's multimedia reporter. She's previously worked as deputy editor at The Keene Sentinel, and has experience writing for many national and international publications. When not doing journalism, she likes to cook food (and eat it).

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