First Day Hikes: Celebrate new year in healthy way at Maryland state parks

From Staff Reports
·3 min read

Celebrate the new year — and burn off those extra holiday calories — with a First Day Hike. Events are being held at in Washington County's state parks.

In fact, Maryland State Parks will offer First Weekend hike opportunities across the state from Dec. 31 to Jan. 2.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks that encourages all 50 states to offer outdoor hiking opportunities on the first day of the new year.

For 2023, there are two types of hikes available:

  • Ranger-led hikes: These hikes will be led by a park ranger, have specific start times and many require pre-registration.

  • Self-guided hikes: These hikes will be available throughout the weekend, on well-marked trails. Park staff and volunteers may be available to get you started but will not be joining you on the hike itself.

Washington County's parks will only have self-guided hikes, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.

First Day Hike “I Hiked” stickers will be available at select locations while supplies last.

Fort Frederick State Park

Type: Self-guided hike

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Distance: Various

When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Address: 11100 Fort Frederick Road, Big Pool

More:Fort Frederick State Park Map/Trail

Description: The land that is now Fort Frederick State Park was purchased by Maryland in December of 1922. Although it would take another 15 years to develop it into a full-fledged park, DNR is starting the 100th Anniversary Celebration with self-guided hikes along the Beaver Pond Trail (1 mile), the Plantation Trail (1 mile) and the Green Trail (2 Miles) as well as walking tours featuring the history of the 1756 Fort, the Williams Family and the Civilian Conservation Corps. Start your visit at the park Visitor Center where you can enjoy the newly renovated museum exhibit highlighting stories of the fort and park. Park map and walking tours will be available at the Visitor Center and can also be printed at home from the park’s website.

Additional Information:Park office: 301-842-2155Email: fort.frederick@maryland.gov.

The lake at Greenbrier State Park east of Hagerstown is seen in this 2014 file photo. The park will offer two First Day hikes on Jan. 1.
The lake at Greenbrier State Park east of Hagerstown is seen in this 2014 file photo. The park will offer two First Day hikes on Jan. 1.

Greenbrier State Park

Type: Self-guided hikes

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: Various

When: 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Address: 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro

More: Greenbrier State Park Map/Trail

Description: Greenbrier will be offering two self-guided First Day hikes. The first along the green trail features an interactive book along the way. The book will be "Jenny's Winter Walk," a kids yoga winter book. Green trail begins near the Visitors Center. The second is the Marked Mile Trail along paved surfaces beside the park's lake and through the picnic area. Hike begins near the Visitors Center and will be marked with green cones. Follow signs to the park Visitors Center for trail maps and more information.

Additional details: Leashed pets are welcome. The green trail is not wheelchair and stroller friendly, but the Marked Mile Trail is. Restrooms will be available at the Visitors Center. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring water. No pre-registration required.

Additional information:Email: greenbrier.statepark@maryland.govPark office: 301.791.4656Park duty ranger: 240.357.4386

Washington Monument State Park​

Type: Self-guided hike

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 1/2 - 1 mile

When: 4 p.m. to after sunset

Address: 6620 Zittlestown Road, Middletown

More: Washington Monument State Park Map/Trail

Description: View the sunset on the first day of 2023 on the Appalachian/Monument Trail. Arrive at 4 p.m. and follow a self-led hike a short distance to the monument. The park will be open extended hours so you can see the sunset.

Additional Details: Leashed pets are welcome. The Appalachian Trail is not wheelchair or stroller friendly. Please dress appropriately for the weather, bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. No pre-registration required.

Additional Information:Contact: Greenbrier State Park - greenbrier.statepark@maryland.govPark office: 301.791.4656Park duty ranger: 240.357.4386

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Get outside on Jan. 1 with First Day Hikes at Maryland state parks