First Day Hikes scheduled in 3 area state parks

For those whose New Year’s resolution is to get in better shape or just do more outdoor activities, the state has the ideal way to ring in the new year.

Guided hikes are scheduled Wednesday, Jan. 1, in Point State Park in downtown Pittsburgh, Laurel Hill State Park in Somerset County and Ohiopyle State Park in Fayette County.

The guided hikes are part of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources First Day Hike initiative of more than 70 guided hikes in 46 state parks and one forest district on New Year’s Day.

Staff with the DCNR and forest bureau staff, as well as volunteers will lead the hikes, which are usually about one or two miles. Some hikes can be longer depending on the park and its terrain, the state said. It is recommended that hikers wear appropriate clothing and take water.

“First Day Hikes are the perfect way to start the year by immersing yourself in Pennsylvania’s natural spaces,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said.

For those wanting to join the Point State Park hike, which will be from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., meet at the entrance to the Fort Pitt Museum.

Details for the hike at Ohiopyle State Park, which will be from 10 a.m. to noon, will be available when hikers register. To register, call the state park office at 724-329-8591.

Those joining the guided hike at Laurel Hill State Park near Trent, will be to go a four-mile guided hike from 1 to 3 p.m., beginning at the visitors center. A 2½-mile family hike also is planned. For more information, call the park office at 814-352-8649.

Guided hikes also are being offered at Cook Forest State Park near Clarion, Moraine State Park near New Castle and Raccoon Creek State Park near Hookstown. For more information on those hikes, visit the DCNR website at pa.gov/agencies/dcnr.html and click on the Find an Event link on the right side of the website.

Hikers are invited to share their experience on social media using #FirstDayHikes.

First Day Hikes are organized by the National Association of State Park Directors to promote healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks, the DCNR stated. Many of the state parks also have self-guided hikes, story walks and adventure labs available in all four seasons, DCNR said.