Delaware State Parks to celebrate the New Year
Sunday, December 14, 2014
with First Day Hikes across the state
DOVER (Dec. 14, 2014) – Delaware State Parks will sponsor free, guided hikes in nine state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. The hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year by connecting with the outdoors on Jan. 1 at a state park close to home.
On Jan. 1 of this year, 642 participants hiked more than 1,500 miles at nine different state parks. Parks staff and volunteers will lead the 2015 hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the park. Details about hike locations, difficulty, length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing, are listed on the America’s State Parks
First Day Hikes originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation in Milton, Massachusetts, to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks. Last year marked the first time all 50 state park systems participated.
DNREC’s Division of Parks and Recreation is committed to promoting outdoor recreation in state parks as a way to address obesity, especially among children. Getting kids outside and unplugged from video games and other electronic media creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources.