The start of a new year is a perfect opportunity to embrace new beginnings and set the tone for the months ahead! One of the best ways to do this is by connecting with nature. Hiking, a simple yet powerful activity, offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental well-being. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or someone who simply wants to enjoy the outdoors, there’s no better way to begin the year than with a hike. The Garden State offers a variety of stunning landscapes and trails that cater to every hiker, from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. As if you needed reminding, here are some of the reasons hiking is such a beneficial way to start your year, along with a guide to some of the top First Day Hikes in the state.
What Hiking Can Do For You!
1. Boosts Mental Health
Hiking has long been recognized as a natural remedy for stress, anxiety, and depression. The combination of physical activity and time spent in nature can significantly improve mood and mental clarity. Walking through forests, along rivers, or up mountains provides a sense of tranquility, allowing you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with yourself.
2. Improves Physical Fitness
A good hike is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and burn calories. Depending on the terrain and difficulty, hiking can provide a full-body workout that enhances endurance, balance, and coordination. It's also a low-impact exercise that’s easy on the joints while still providing an effective cardiovascular workout.
3. Enhances Creativity
Studies have shown that spending time in nature can boost creativity and problem-solving abilities. Hiking allows you to clear your mind and think more freely, which can lead to new ideas and perspectives. It’s no wonder that many people use hiking as a way to recharge and refresh their mental faculties.
4. Promotes Social Connection
Hiking with friends, family, or fellow outdoor enthusiasts is a wonderful way to bond and create lasting memories. Whether you're participating in a group hike or simply sharing the experience with a loved one, hiking fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
5. Encourages Mindfulness
Being out in nature encourages mindfulness, a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Hiking allows you to fully immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. This can promote a sense of calm and increase awareness of your surroundings, helping you to live in the moment and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.
Start the Year with Adventure
What better way to celebrate the start of the year than by hiking some of New Jersey’s most scenic trails? Whether you're looking for a challenging hike or a more leisurely stroll, there’s a First Day Hike to match every level of fitness. Here are some options in our area:
1. Be the First to Hike Allaire
When: Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Allaire State Park
Description: Kick off the new year with a hike along the green and red trails in Allaire State Park. The 4-mile route will lead through pine and oak forests and by waterways, providing opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching. Expect muddy and slick trails, so wear appropriate footwear.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 4 miles (Natural and flat surface)
Age: Children 5+ with parent/guardian, dogs on leash
Registration: Not required
Meeting Location: Main Parking Lot at Allaire Village, 4265 Atlantic Ave, Farmingdale, NJ 07727
Contact: 732-938-2371
2. Tour of Trenton along D&R Canal State Park
When: Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: D&R Canal State Park
Description: Join a guided tour of Trenton along the historic D&R Canal, starting at the Trenton Battle Monument. The 3.5-mile route will explore the city, passing by the canal and ending at Cadwalader Park.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 3.5 miles (Flat, natural and compact surface)
Age: Children with adults, service animals only
Registration: Email Trails@dep.nj.gov to register
Meeting Location: Trenton Battle Monument, 348 North Warren Street, Trenton, NJ
3. NJ State Tree and Nursery Walk and Trail
When: Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Where: Forest Resource Education Center
Description: Enjoy a relaxing 1.5-mile walk through New Jersey's State Tree Nursery and Trail. A great way to learn about the local flora and enjoy the winter outdoors.
Difficulty: Easy ~ 1.5 miles (Flat, natural surface)
Age: All ages, service animals only
Registration: Required on Eventbrite
Meeting Location: Forest Resource Education Center, 495 Don Conner Blvd, Jackson, NJ 08527
4. First Day Hike at Island Beach State Park
When: Wednesday, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Where: Island Beach State Park
Description: Take a scenic 1.5-mile walk down the beach and enjoy the winter beauty of Island Beach. Afterward, enjoy a bonfire and s'mores, weather permitting.
Difficulty: Easy ~ 1.5 miles (Flat and sandy)
Age: All ages, well-behaved dogs on leash
Registration: Required, click the link to register
Meeting Location: Pavilion at Swimming Area 1, Island Beach State Park, 2207 SW Central Ave, Seaside Park, NJ 08752
5. Perrine Hill: Where Molly Pitcher Fought
When: Wednesday, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Where: Monmouth Battlefield State Park
Description: Learn about the Battle of Monmouth while hiking through farm fields where George Washington commanded and Molly Pitcher fought. This guided hike combines natural beauty with Revolutionary War history.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 2.5 miles (Natural surface, flat incline)
Age: Children 10+ with parent/guardian
Registration: Not required. Call (732) 462-9616 and/or check for cancellation updates here.
Meeting Location: Monmouth Battlefield State Park Visitor Center, 20 Business Rte. 33, Manalapan, NJ 07726
6. 2025 First Steps
When: Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Where: Round Valley Recreation Area
Description: Start the year with a 2-mile hike through the beautiful winter landscape of Round Valley. The trail is mostly level and offers a great opportunity to spot northern waterfowl visiting the reservoir.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 2 miles (Natural surface, good footing)
Age: Children 5+ with parent/guardian, dogs on leash
Registration: Required on Eventbrite
Meeting Location: South Parking Lot, 1220 Stanton-Lebanon Road, Lebanon, NJ 08833
7. First Day Climb at Twin Lights Historic Site
When: Wednesday, 10 a.m. – 3:50 p.m.
Where: Twin Lights Historic Site
Description: Ring in the new year with a climb up the North Tower at the Navesink Light Station. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area and learn about the history of the site.
Difficulty: Easy ~ 0.25 miles (Compact surface, moderate incline)
Age: Children of all ages
Registration: Not required. For more information please call 732-872-1814.
Meeting Location: 2 Light House Road, Highlands, NJ 07732
8. Old Dutch New Year First Day Hike: The Middlebrook Series
When: Wednesday, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Where: Wallace House and Dutch Parsonage Historic Sites
Description: Follow the Middlebrook Series route along Somerville’s Peters Brook Greenway and Main Street. Learn about George Washington's march through Somerville in January 1777 and get a preview of upcoming Revolutionary War programs.
Difficulty: Easy ~ 3 miles (Natural and compact surface, flat)
Age: Children 6+ with parent/guardian, dogs on leash
Registration: Not required. For more information please call (908) 725-1015. Cancellation information will be posted on Facebook.
Meeting Location: Wallace House and Old Dutch Parsonage Parking Lot, 71 Somerset Street, Somerville, NJ 08876
9. Short Naturalist Guided Hike at Washington Crossing State Park
When: Wednesday, 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Where: Washington Crossing State Park
Description: Join a naturalist on a short, 1-2 mile hike through Washington Crossing State Park. Enjoy the peaceful winter landscape while learning about local flora and fauna.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 2 miles (Natural surface, moderate incline)
Age: Children 5+ with parent/guardian
Registration: Required, limit of 25 participants
Meeting Location: Stone Barn, 355 Washington Crossing-Pennington Rd, Titusville, NJ 08560
10. From Ferry to Ferry, a Historic Tour Hike
When: Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Where: Washington Crossing State Park
Description: This historic hike starts at McKonkey's Ferry Tavern on the PA side of the Delaware River. Cross the river to the NJ side and explore the 1776 ferry service, the Crossing, and more, with hot cider and hearth-baked goodies at the Nelson House.
Difficulty: Moderate ~ 0.75 miles (Natural and compact surface, flat incline)
Age: Children 6+ with parent/guardian, dogs on leash
Registration: Please call 609-737-2515 and leave your name, phone number and number of people. Registered participants will be contacted for cancellations.
Meeting Location: McKonkey Ferry Tavern, Rt. 532, Washington Crossing Historic Park, Taylorsville, PA
For a full list of First Day Hikes across the state, click here.
Ready to Explore the Great Outdoors?
No matter which hike you choose, you’ll have the chance to discover the natural beauty and history of New Jersey’s parks. Be sure to dress warmly, bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy footwear. Please note that registration may or may not be required for some hikes. It’s always a good idea to contact the park in advance to confirm registration requirements and to check for any cancellations or changes due to weather conditions.
Happy hiking and Happy New Year!
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