NJDEP/First Day Hike
TRENTON – If jumping in the frigid water of the Atlantic Ocean is not your thing, consider taking a long walk in the woods New Year’s Day to enjoy the diversity of landscapes in the South Jersey region.
The NJ Department of Environmental Protection is encouraging New Jerseyans to start the new year with a free, guided First Day Hike in one of New Jersey’s state parks, forests and historic sites on Jan. 1. More than 30 hikes will be available that provide a unique opportunity for people of all skill levels to connect with nature, discover local treasures and boost their physical and mental health as they enter the new year.
“New Jersey’s state parks and forests boast thousands of miles of trails through a wide variety of ecosystems, from rocky and wooded hills to vast pine forests to coastal marshlands and urban green spaces – all ready to be explored with family and friends,” Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette said. “Led by knowledgeable State Park Service staff and volunteers some exercise and learning about the environment we share.”
The DEP’s State Park Service began participating in First Day Hikes after the program became a nationwide event in 2012. First Day Hikes began more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Mass. The program was launched to promote healthy lifestyles and year-round recreation at state parks.
“A First Day Hike is the perfect time to experience a state park, forest or historic site for the first time or visit an old favorite,” Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites John Cecil said. “There is no better way to start the new year than to get outside into the fresh air and be surrounded by New Jersey’s natural wonders and history.”
Most people around these parts believe a long walk on the beach is in order, or taking a dip in the Atlantic at one of four Polar Bear Plunges planned for Margate, Ventnor, Atlantic City and Brigantine. But if you’re looking for something a little bit different this year, check out these First Day Hikes being offered for hikers of all skill levels.
Dr. James Still Historic Site, Burlington County
Visit the State Park Service’s first African American historic site in Medford. One of 18 children, and older brother of William Still, Dr. James Still was born in 1812 in Burlington County to enslaved African Americans. Largely self-taught in medical diagnosis and treatment, Dr. Still established an office in Medford where he developed and dispensed herbal and homeopathic remedies. He is historically referred to as the “Black Doctor of the Pines.” Hikers will meet at 12 p.m. at 210 Medford-Mt. Holly Road, Medford before traversing 1.5 miles through the woods and meadow of the historic site. For more information contact: drjamesstillcenter@gmail.com.
Belleplain State Forest, Cape May County
Residents, along with their leashed dogs, are invited to join Megan and her Furry Friends for Belleplain State Forest’s ninth annual six-mile first day dog hike. Hikers will meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Belleplain State Forest office parking lot located at 1 Henkinsifkin Road in Woodbine. No registration required, for questions call (609) 861-2404 or email belleplaincamping@dep.nj.gov.
Wharton State Forest, Burlington County
Take a scenic eight-mile hike along the Batona Trail in Wharton State Forest from the Carranza Monument to the Apple Pie Hill Fire Tower. This guided hike will depart from the Carranza Monument at 10 a.m. and arrive at the fire tower around 12 p.m., where participants will take a lunch break and climb the tower before returning. Registration is required and will open Dec. 29 at 8 a.m. Register here: https://forms.office.com/g/p6DCMAjgPY.
For a complete list of hikes and related details including trail descriptions and registration information, visit njparksandforests.org/firstdayhikes/.
Or for something more traditional, ring in the New Year Downbeach style…
