HARRISBURG PA – Area residents and visitors are being encouraged to begin the new year by taking hikes in Pennsylvania, and specifically at three state parks in Berks and Chester counties.
Free and guided “First Day Hikes” in Reading, Elverson, and Downingtown – all within a 20-mile drive of Pottstown – are among more than 60 such events scheduled for New Year’s Day (Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026) across the state. They intend to offer participants an easy and healthy way to kick off the new year while exploring Pennsylvania’s public lands.
Most guided hikes range from one to two miles. Park staff members and trained volunteers will lead the hikes during daylight hours. A few offer longer options, depending on terrain and location.
“They’re a great opportunity to connect with nature, meet fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and start the year off on a healthy note,” Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn says.
First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by the National Association of State Park Directors. It hopes to promote healthy lifestyles and year-round recreation in state parks.
Pennsylvania has participated in the program since its inception. Participants can share their experiences on social media platforms with photos and comments using the tag #FirstDayHikes.
Hikes planned locally, and listed in order of start times, are:
At Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center, 3025 New Holland Rd., Reading PA
The Pagoda Pacers will lead participants on a 2-to-3 mile run or hike through the center’s winter forest Jan. 1 from 8:30-10 a.m. Be forewarned: this hike is for adults only; the trail is described as “often steep and uneven;” and hikers should prepare for the weather by wearing layers and hiking shoes. Advance registration is required, as spaces are limited.
Meet at the Environmental Education Center parking lot at Nolde Forest, which will be closed to all but registered hike participants. Its gate will open 15 minutes before the event start time and will close during the hike. Please arrive on time. Programs are held rain or shine, but will be canceled for high winds or severe weather. Participants will be contacted if a cancellation occurs.
For more information, send an e-mail to spresogna@pa.gov, or find details online.
Photo by ben o’bro on Unsplash, used under license
At French Creek State Park, 843 Park Road, Elverson PA
Visitors to Scotts Run Lake inside French Creek State Park can hike its 2-mile Scotts Run Loop on Jan. 1 at 9 a.m. The trail is “considered fairly easy,” park staffers report. “During the hike, various Pennsylvania Dutch Hex signs will be staged along the trail. As we pass the signs we will learn about their meaning, history, and how they relate to local culture,” they add.
No registration is required. All ages welcome leashed dogs are welcome. Find details online.
At Marsh Creek State Park, 675 Park Rd., Downingtown PA
Meet at the West Boat Launch’s West Side Bathroom by navigating to 800 North Reeds Rd., Downingtown PA. Ranger Kim will lead the Marsh Creek New Year’s Hike over 1-1/2 miles of “easy-to-navigate terrain” Jan. 1 from 1-2 p.m.
The event also is filled with trivia questions of varied difficulty, which allow participants to learn more about the park. Registration is not required. Find details online.
Our “Local News” reporting includes Healthy Living articles about healthcare, wellness, medical providers, and medical services within, or that affect residents of, Montgomery, Berks, and Chester PA counties. Find more health-related articles here. Also, see and follow the Pottstown Health page on Facebook.
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