The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 6, along with its partners, will host three First Day Hike events on January 1, 2026. These hikes are part of the annual initiative to encourage residents to spend time outdoors at the start of the new year. The program offers various hike options for different experience levels at more than 115 locations across New York State.
The DEC is collaborating with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Canal Corporation to organize these walks and hikes. A comprehensive list of all First Day Hikes in New York, including details about locations, registration requirements, and additional information, can be found online for DEC, Parks, and Canals. Participants are advised to review their chosen site’s requirements and register if necessary.
In Region 6, three specific hiking opportunities are being offered:
In Oneida County, a four-mile walk will take place at Utica Marsh Wildlife Management Area from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will follow a flat route along pavement by the Erie Canal and nearby wetlands. Participants will stop at a wildlife viewing platform to observe local wildlife in the ponds. Registration is required for this hike.
In Jefferson County, a two-mile snowshoe or hike is planned on the CCC Loop Trail in Winona State Forest from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., in partnership with the Winona Forest Recreation Association. The trail passes through hardwood forests and plantations established by the Civil Conservation Corps as well as a section of Skinner Creek. Registration is encouraged but not mandatory.
In St. Lawrence County, participants can join DEC staff, members of Friends of Mt. Arab, and a guide from the New York State Outdoor Guide Association for a two-mile round trip hike up Mt. Arab from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Hikers will have an opportunity to climb a fire tower for views of Tupper Lake, Eagle Crag Lake, and Mt. Arab Lake. Registration is required for this event.
All hikes welcome participants of all ages and leashed pets that are well-behaved.
“Get Offline, and Get Outside,” is the message behind these events as New Yorkers are invited to begin their year by enjoying public lands throughout the state.