Baker-Polito Administration Announces First Day Hikes at Massachusetts State Parks
Press Release | Department of Conservation & Recreation | December 28, 2021
BOSTON — Continuing a decades-long tradition, the Baker-Polito Administration today announced it is offering First Day Hikes throughout the Massachusetts State Parks System on Saturday, January 1, 2022. Organized by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), the Administration will offer seven guided hikes as part of the 31st annual First Day Hikes in Massachusetts to provide the public with an opportunity to incorporate outdoor recreational activities into their New Year’s Day celebrations.
“The Baker-Polito Administration is thrilled to continue the tradition of offering First Day hikes at state parks throughout the Commonwealth again this year,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “There is nothing more invigorating than hiking through one of our beautiful parks with family and friends, and we’re pleased to offer the opportunity kick off the New Year by getting outside and exploring the wonderful natural resources we have here in Massachusetts.”
First Day Hikes were first offered to the public in 1992 at DCR’s Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, Massachusetts, in an effort to encourage year-round outdoor recreation and to inspire the public to discover the Commonwealth’s impressive natural resources. Since its inception, state’s across the nation began participating in the program, and then in 2012, all 50 state park systems joined together to sponsor America’s State Parks First Day Hikes Initiative, which has since become the signature program for America’s State Parks nationwide.
“The Department of Conservation and Recreation loves the tradition of kicking off the New Year by getting outdoors and exercising with family and friends while connecting with nature, and exploring the unique natural resources we have here in the Commonwealth,” said DCR Acting Commissioner Stephanie Cooper. “We are excited that the program has been so popular with Massachusetts residents and beyond.”
Throughout the Commonwealth, the Massachusetts State Parks System offers incredible natural resources for visitors to explore, as well as exceptional recreational activities, such as hiking along mountain trails, walking along waterfronts, and traversing through forests. Additionally, this year’s First Day Hikes will average one to two miles or longer depending on location. For details about the hikes, difficulty, length, terrain, and tips regarding proper apparel, please visit DCR’s website. Furthermore, participants are also encouraged to tweet, post, and tag photos on social media using @MassDCR and #FirstDayHikes.
To read the full press release, please click here.