New York Governor Hochu recently announced that the annual “First Day Hike” event will kick off on January 1, 2026 (Thursday), marking its 15th year tradition. This year, a total of 125 hiking routes will be available at 117 locations statewide, led by professional guides. On New Year’s Day, all state parks and attractions will waive parking fees, encouraging people to start the new year in a healthy way.
This event is jointly organized by the New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Office, the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), and other agencies, in full support of the governor’s outdoor initiative. Officials stated that this year’s routes mostly cater to beginners with low difficulty levels, ranging from approximately 1 to 5 miles, making it ideal for novices, families, and seniors to comfortably connect with nature during the winter.
For the Chinese community, several hiking spots near the New York City area are particularly convenient. The Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn, with its spacious trails, gentle slopes, and low technical difficulty, is popular for its “stress-free hiking” suitable for families, beginners, and seniors. Accessible from Eighth Avenue, Sunset Park, Bensonhurst, the western Queens area, and Lower Manhattan, the drive is typically within 30 to 40 minutes.
Gantry Plaza State Park on the East River waterfront in Queens has become a metropolitan favorite due to its excellent accessibility. Commuters can take the 7 train directly, eliminating the need for driving. The flat waterfront path is perfect for strollers and slower walkers, offering views of the Manhattan skyline and earning the reputation as the best spot for capturing the “first beautiful photo of 2026”.
“First Day Hike” originated from Massachusetts in 1992 and has evolved into a nationwide New Year’s outdoor event with participation from all 50 states. For the event schedule, detailed locations, and registration information, you can visit the New York State Parks and DEC websites. Link: https://tinyurl.com/2jmp9rbk