First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes will be organized in all 50 states. Kids and adults all across America will be participating in First Day Hikes, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of a state park. Last year nearly 28,000 people rang in the New Year, collectively hiking over 66,000 miles throughout the country!
First Day Hikes are led by knowledgeable state park staff and volunteers. The distance and rigor vary from park to park, but all hikes aim to create a fun experience for the whole family. People are invited to savor the beauty of the state park’s natural resources with the comfort of an experienced guide so they may be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures throughout the year. Learn more about the history of first day hikes, cold weather hiking, and America’s State Parks on the American Hiking Society website. Another good source of information on hiking and beginner tips is Nature Sport Central’s website.
This year, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources invites everyone to kick off the New Year with one of Maryland’s fastest-growing traditions – a First Day Hike.
On Jan. 1, 2020, the Maryland Park Service will offer more than three dozen hikes on more than 30 state lands and parks. Here’s a full list of Maryland State Park First Day Hikes .
Looking for something to do in the Patapsco Valley? Check out these hikes in our area:
Patapsco Valley State Park: Cascade Falls
9:30 – 10:30 a.m. at the Orange Grove Area (guided, shine only)
Starting point: Cascade Falls trailhead, 5120 South St., Baltimore
Half-mile easy hike. Hikers will need to bring their own water, wear closed- toe shoes appropriate for travel across all terrain (mud/water included), and dress appropriately for the weather. Registration is required by Dec. 27 and will be limited to 40 participants. Due to the nature of the Cascade Falls Trail, strollers are prohibited on this hike. The hike itself is free, but the park service charge of $2/car is required at time of entry. Pets are not permitted on this guided hike.
Patapsco Valley State Park: McKeldin Area
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the McKeldin Area (guided, shine only)
Starting point: Shelter 501, 11676 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville
4-mile moderate hike over varied terrain with steep slopes. Hikers will need to bring their own water, wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for travel across all terrain (mud/water included), and dress appropriately for the weather. Registration is required by Dec. 27 and will be limited to 100 participants. Due to terrain and distance, participants must be age 10 and up to participate. The hike itself is free, but the park service charge of $2/car is required at time of entry.
Patapsco Valley State Park: Union Dam
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Hollofield Area (self-guided)
Starting point: Shelter 300 parking lot, 8020 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City
1.5-mile moderate hike with very steep slopes. Hikers will need to bring their own water, wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for travel across all terrain (mud/water included), and dress appropriately for the weather. A map of the Hollofield Area is located on the bulletin board at the trailhead. Maps can also be downloaded online and printed. Hike is suitable for all ages. Leashed dogs welcome.
Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area
9 a.m – 4 p.m. at the Serpentine Trail (self-guided)
Starting point: Visitor Center parking lot, 5200 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills
2.5-mile moderate hike over varied terrain with steep slopes and one stream crossing. Hikers will need to bring their own water, wear closed-toe shoes appropriate for travel across all terrain (mud/water included), and dress appropriately for the weather. A map of the Serpentine Trail is located on the bulletin board at the trailhead. Maps can also be downloaded online and printed. Hike is suitable for all ages. Leashed dogs welcome. Bicycles are prohibited in all areas of Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area.
Join CRTT for the 2020 New Year’s Day Hike
Wednesday, January 1, 2020
Meet at the Santa House, 758 Frederick Road, 21228
Tickets are $10, children under 10 are free – Buy here!
For more information, click Here!
