Kick Off 2026 With A First Day Hike
- Laura Scharle
- Dec 16, 2025
- 4 min read
The start of 2026 is the perfect excuse to reset, set a few intentions, and spend some time outdoors. One of the best ways to welcome the new year is by hitting the trail for a refreshing winter hike. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by the National Association of State Park Directors, encouraging people to kick off the year by exploring their state parks and enjoying time outside.
Delmarva proudly takes part in this tradition. Ranger-led hikes are scheduled throughout the region and listed below, but you don’t have to join a guided outing to participate. If you’d rather explore on your own, browse our trail database or check out the interactive trail map to find a new place to discover this New Year’s Day.
DELAWARE
Killens Pond State Park
Felton, Delaware
1:00 p.m.
Join the national movement! Get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and start your new year off right with a First Day Hike! Meet at Pavilion 1 at the Sports Complex Area. We will be hiking a 2.5 mile portion of the Cross Country Trail. Dogs on leash welcome! Free.
Cape Henlopen State Park
Lewes, Delaware
9:00 a.m.
Start the New Year off on the right foot! Take in the scenic beauty and ecological importance as we hike around the Point. For ages 7 and older with an adult. No pets. Parking is limited so please carpool. FREE
Cape Henlopen State Park: Fort Miles
Lewes, Delaware
9:30 a.m.
Start the New Year off right with a history hike! Join our guided hike to learn more about some of the farther-flung elements of Fort Miles. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Hike starts at the Pinelands Trail: Fort Miles Trailhead in the parking lot across the street from the Observation Tower. FREE.
Holts Landing State Park
Dagsboro, Delaware
10:00 a.m.
Start the New Year off right and be part of the First Day Hike national movement! This 1.3-mile trail meanders through hardwood forest, meadow, salt marsh, and freshwater bog habitats. Free!
Delaware Seashore State Park
Rehoboth Beach, DE
2:00 p.m.
Start the New Year off right and be part of the First Day Hike national movement! Learn about the dynamic forces that have shaped the inlet over the last 200 years. Find out about the bridges that have spanned the inlet and how the current bridge design came to be. Free!
Port Penn Wetland Trail
Middletown, DE
2:00 p.m.
Start off the year right with a walk along Port Penn’s Wetland Trail! This is a great time to hear about the history of Port Penn’s seasonal economy, but also to enjoy the beauty of the wetland!
Learn more about the First Day Hikes in Delaware here.
MARYLAND
Tuckahoe State Park
Denton, MD
10:00 a.m.
Join Ranger Mark for a First Day Bike Ride! Meet at the Tuckahoe State Park Office for a scenic ride along Anna’s Trail to the railroad bridge and back — a round trip of approximately 5.5 miles. This wide, level gravel trail is perfect for riders of all skill levels and offers a great way to start the new year outdoors.
Harriet Tubman UGRR State Park
Church Creek, MD
10:00 a.m.
Join Park Rangers at Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center to begin a flat and paved hike into the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on their Wildlife Drive. Walk along the Blackwater River and immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape that helped shape Harriet Tubman. All are welcome.
Jane's Island State Park
Crisfield, MD
4:00 p.m.
Join a Park Ranger for a hike along the whitetail trail ending at the Jane's Island marina to view the sunset and then enjoy a campfire and hot chocolate! This is an easy hike through an unpaved area of the woods. There is also a self guided version of this hike that will be available all day.
Assateague State Park
Berlin, MD
10:00 a.m.
Join Assateague State Park Staff as we explore the rich history of the island, discuss local wildlife that call the island home and learn more about the legendary horses. The beach may not be the first destination on your list in January but the island has many treasures to share. As you explore look for winter waterfowl, raptors, sika deer, and of course the wild horses. Dress for the weather, the island can be 10-15 degrees colder along the water! Stop by the Day-Use boardwalk for a a fireside chat with park staff, share stories, ask questions and make a connection. Hot chocolate will be provided by Assateague Coastal Trust. State Park Staff will be available 10am-12pm at the Day-Use Boardwalk.
Learn more about the First Day Hikes in Maryland here.
VIRGINIA
Kiptopeke State Park
Cape Charles, VA
10:00 a.m.
What better way to kick off the New Year than a guided nature hike observing local wildlife! Join Friends of Kiptopeke State Park for a First Day Hike. Bring binoculars or your camera, you never know what you may see. The hike will start at 10:00 am and leave from Picnic Shelter #1 located in the Day Use area. The hike will be one mile on flat, even ground. After the hike, stay to enjoy some hot chocolate and learn how you can help the park by joining the Friends of Kiptopeke State Park.
Learn more about the First Day Hikes in Virginia here.
