Assateague State Park: Ilia Fehrer / Judy Johnson Memorial Beach Walk
Worcester County
Time of Event: 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Assateague State Park concession building- 7307 Stephen Decatur Highway, Berlin, MD 21811
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families of all ages. Opportunities available for self-guided hike or group hike along the beach toward the north end of the island.
Length of Trail: One mile round trip
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking. Hot chocolate will be served on the concession deck following the walk. To save on disposables, please bring a mug for your hot chocolate.
Additional Information: Join us as we celebrate the beauty of Assateague Island. The first Assateague Beach Walk was held on January 1, 1970. The newly formed Committee to Preserve Assateague Island hosted the inaugural event to draw attention to Assateague’s wild beauty. The committee was created by Ilia Fehrer, Judy Johnson and a few friends who had organized to rally against early plans for development of Assateague Island, which included a 25-mile highway and a number of commercial enterprises, and the Ocean Beach resort, much like Ocean City. A series of 1962 nor-easters interrupted construction, and eventually National and State Parks were established. The committee became the organization, Assateague Coastal Trust, who along with Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park sponsor the New Year’s Day walk each year. Dogs on a leash are welcome only as far as the boundary of the State Park (to the north of the boundary, dogs are not permitted).
Calvert Cliffs State Park: New Year’s Fossil Hike
Calvert County
Time of Event: 10 a.m.
Meeting Location: Calvert Cliffs State Park, next to the bathhouse- 10540 H. G. Trueman Road
Lusby, Maryland
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Hike: 3.6 miles (round-trip). Hike will last approximately 2 hours
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothing and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow, or shine), and bring water for drinking
RSVP: Participants are encouraged to register via email to CalvertCliffs.StatePark@Maryland.gov or to call Calvert Cliffs State Park at 443-975-4360
Additional Information: Come kick off your New Year by going for a fun, family-friendly hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park! The trail is approximately 3.6 miles round-trip, stroller accessible, and leads right to the Chesapeake Bay. We’ll stop along the hike to discuss the geologic history of the park, and with the assistance of park staff, look for fossilized shark teeth once at the beach. We’ll finish the hike with refreshments around a cozy fire at the pavilion. Dogs on a leash are welcome!
Cedarville State Forest: A Winter Hike in the Forest
Prince George’s County
Time(s) of Event: 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Playground, Parking in Pavilion Two Lot- 10201 Bee Oak Road
Brandywine, MD 20613
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families.
Length of Hike: 2 mile loop on the Orange Trail, will last approximately 1.5 hours.
Things to Bring: Please dress appropriately for the weather, and bring water to drink. Dogs on a leash are welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult.
RSVP: Call Cedarville State Forest for more information: 301-888-1410
Additional Information: Join the Friends of Cedarville State Forest for a steady winter hike on the Orange Trail followed by hot cocoa, coffee and other refreshments while you warm up by the fireplace at Pavilion One. This trail is not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly.
Chapman State Park: Twenty Five Pounds Lighter!
Charles County
Time(s) of Event: 2pm-4pm
Meeting Location: Meet at Mt. Aventine Mansion
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate
Length of Hike: approximate round trip distance of 2 miles
Things to Bring: Water, comfortable shoes, work gloves
RSVP: (301) 743-7613 or catherine.donley@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Is one of your New Year's Resolutions to "De-Clutter"? It's one of ours too! Come join a Ranger on gorgeous winter hike to the water where we will try to make Chapman 25 lbs lighter by picking up a few bags of trash from the shoreline of the Potomac. You'll get leaner, the park will get cleaner, and everyone will start the year off right!
Cunningham Falls State Park: Self-Guided First Day Hike
Frederick County
Time of Event: Available All Day- choose a good time that works for you!
Meeting Location: Lower Falls Trail Parking Lot, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road Thurmont MD 21788
Degree of Difficulty: Lower Falls Trail: Easy, Cliff Trail: Moderate
Length of Hike: 1 mile, round trip
Things to Bring: Sturdy close-toed shoes, warm clothing, and water.
RSVP: N/A
Additional Information: This is a self-guided hike to Cunningham Falls, the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland. Visitors can choose between the Lower Falls Trail and the Cliff Trail. Dogs on a leash are welcome on both trails. This is a family friendly hike. Jogging strollers can access the Lower Falls Trail.
Cunningham Falls State Park: Cat Rock Guided Hike
Frederick County
Time of Event: 1:00 PM
Meeting Location: Cat Rock Parking Lot, 6571 Foxville Road Thurmont MD 21788
Degree of Difficulty: Difficult
Length of Hike: 3 miles, round trip
Things to Bring: Sturdy close-toed boots, warm clothing, water, snacks, boot ice grips, and hiking poles.
RSVP: (301) 712-6964 by Dec. 31
Additional Information: Hike with a Ranger to beautiful Cat Rock. This difficult hike will begin at the Cat Rock Parking Lot, located across the road from the National Park Headquarters. Start the New Year with some strenuous activity! This hike is weather-dependent, participants will be notified about cancellation via phone by Dec. 31. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
Dans Mountain State Park: First Day Hike
Allegany County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Hill Run Pavilion on Water Station Run Road
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike for families. No Strollers
Length of Trail: 1 mile
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Call New Germany State Park at 301-895-5453 for information
Additional Information: A ranger will lead hikers along the 1 mile Dye School Trail, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the park. The route will steadily climb 200 feet to the Dye School foundation, and will then loop downhill for the second half of the hike. The hike will take less than one hour to complete, and will conclude with hot cocoa and a warm fire at the pavilion. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
Deep Creek Lake State Park: Beckman's Trail Hike
Garrett County
Time of Event: 10:00 AM - 12:00 Noon
Meeting Location: Discovery Center, 969 State Park Road, Swanton, MD 21561
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate walking, not stroller friendly
Length of Hike: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Things to Bring: Water, proper footwear, Dress for the weather
RSVP: Discovery Center (301) 387-7067 or Will Williams at willie.williams@maryland.gov.
Additional Information: Dogs on a leash are welcome. Depending on snow conditions, we will have a limited number of snowshoes available. If you have your own snowshoes, bring them! Hot chocolate will be served after the hike in the Discovery Room.
Elk Neck State Park First Day Hike: White Clay Cliffs!
Cecil County
Time of Event: 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Meeting Location: Mauldin Mountain Parking Lot- 4395 Turkey Point Rd., North East, MD 21901
Degree of Difficulty: Medium to Difficult hike, rolling hills and steep incline on the return.
Length of Hike: Approximate round trip distance of 2 miles
Things to Bring: Hiking shoes, a water bottle, hiking sticks if you would like, and dress for the weather.
RSVP: 410-287-5333 or michael.hyde@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Ring in the New Year by breaking in your hiking boots! Join a Ranger on an invigorating 2 mile trek on the Mauldin Mountain and White Banks trails. The midpoint of the hike will provide breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay from our White Clay Cliffs overlook. Meet at Mauldin Mountain in the North East River area. Dogs on a leash are welcome. Stay afterwards to enjoy hot chocolate at the Hilltop Shelter. This hike is not stroller friendly. Donations welcomed!
Fair Hill NRMA: Five Miles of Charming Fair Hill
Cecil County
Time of Event: 11:00 AM
Meeting Location: North Appleton (Lot #3): 2941 Appleton Road, Elkton, MD 21921
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Length of Hike: Approximately 5 miles
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and to bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Please call Fair Hill NRMA at 410-398-1246 to register or contact Katlin Drussel at katlin.drussel@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Start the year outdoors! Join our ranger staff on an invigorating five mile hike through beautiful Fair Hill. We will offer hot chocolate and a warm campfire along the route to help hikers re-energize and connect with fellow first day hikers! Terrain is unsuitable for strollers; friendly leashed pets welcome. Registration requested.
Fort Frederick State Park: Vistas of Fort Frederick
Washington County
Time of Event: 11:00 a.m.
Meeting Location: Fort Frederick Visitor Center- 1100 Fort Frederick Rd. Big Pool, MD 21711
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike fort families
Length of Hike: approximate round trip 3 miles
Things to Bring: Please wear hiking shoes or boots, dress for the weather, bring water, camera, and binoculars
RSVP: 301-842-2155
Additional Information: This hike will encompass a variety of terrains and there will be hot drinks and refreshments following the hike! Dogs welcome on a leash. Not stroller accessible.
Gambrill State Park: Gambrill Overlook Guided Sunset Hike
Frederick County
Time of Event: 4:15 PM
Meeting Location: Gambrill Nature Center, 8448 High Knob Road Frederick MD 21702
Degree of Difficulty: Easy
Length of Hike: Approximately 2 miles, round trip.
Things to Bring: Sturdy close-toed shoes, warm clothing, water, and a flashlight.
RSVP: No pre-registration required. Call (301) 712-6964 by Dec. 31 for additional information.
Additional Information: Hike with a Ranger to all three of Gambrill's overlooks and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Middletown Valley. Dogs on a leash are welcome. This is a family friendly hike, but is not stroller accessible.
Gunpowder Falls State Park: First Day Hike at the Historic Jerusalem Mill Village
Baltimore County
Time(s) of Events: 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Meeting Location: Street Address: 2813 Jerusalem Road, Kingsville, MD 21087. Meet in the Meadow between the Blacksmith Shop and the river.
Degree of Difficulty: Easy-to-moderate difficulty.
Length of Hike: Approximately 2.5-miles roundtrip (~1 hour).
Things to Bring: Dress for the weather and bring water. Water-resistant boots are highly recommended.
RSVP: Pre-registration recommended, but not mandatory. Contact Ranger Andrea Townsley-Sapp at andrea.townsley-sapp@maryland.gov
Additional Information: The Friends of Jerusalem Mill will lead hikers along the Little Gunpowder Falls. The hike will cover some wet or uneven terrain. Friendly, leashed dogs with hiking experience are welcome. Trail not suited for strollers, but children are welcome. Snacks and drinks will be graciously provided by the Friends of Jerusalem Mill. Donations encouraged.
Gunpowder Falls State Park: First Day Hike at Sweet Air
Baltimore & Harford Counties
Time of Event: 8 a.m.
Meeting Location: Street Address: 2840 Dalton Bevard Rd, Baldwin, MD 21013. Meet in the parking lot by the large bulletin board.
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate difficulty.
Length of Hike: Approximately 3-miles roundtrip (~1.5 hours).
Things to Bring: Dress for the weather and bring water. Water-resistant boots are highly recommended.
RSVP: Pre-registration recommended, but not mandatory. Contact Ranger Andrea Townsley-Sapp at andrea.townsley-sapp@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Park staff and the Maryland Conservation Corps crew will lead this hike down the Barley Pond and Red Dot Trails. Bring binoculars for bird watching and other wildlife viewing opportunities. The hike will lead participants to a scenic overlook of the Little Gunpowder Falls. Friendly, leashed dogs with hiking experience are welcome. Trail not suited for strollers or children under the age of 8.
Greenbrier State Park: A Winter Hike around the Lake
Washington County
Time of Event: Self-guided First Day Hike available from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.; Ranger led-hike at 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Greenbrier Visitor Center
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike
Length of Hike: Approximately 1.5 miles
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
RSVP: Reservations are recommended. Call Greenbrier State Park at 301-791-4767
Additional Information: There will be a self-guided hike available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. which will take you around the lake. There will also be a ranger-led hike around the lake at 11 a.m. For a stroller friendly experience or a walk on a level surface, there is also a self-guided "measured mile" that is available starting at the visitor center. Pets on a leash are welcome. Large groups may be directed to the self-guided hike.
Greenwell State Park: First Day Hike
St. Mary’s County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the pavilion at Greenwell State Park 25420 Rosedale Manor Lane,
Hollywood MD 20636
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike for families
Length of Hike: Approximately 1.5 miles
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking and a mug to enjoy hot cocoa following the hike!
RSVP: 301-872-5688 or email pointlookout.statepark@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Join a ranger to hike the Orange trail, exploring all that Greenwell State Park has to offer including forest, beach, wetlands, and fields. Afterwards warm up with hot cocoa at the pavilion. Dogs on leash are welcome. This trail is not stroller friendly.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park: First Day Hikes in Tubman Country!
Dorchester County
Times of Events: 10:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Meeting Location: The lobby of the Visitor Center- Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park & Visitor Center 4068 Golden Hill Road, Church Creek, MD 21622
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Hike: Approximately 1.5 miles
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine) and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Registration is required and space is available on a first come, first serve basis. Please e-mail Ranger Angela Crenshaw (angela.crenshaw@maryland.gov) to register and for information about the event. Call 410-221-2290 if you have any questions.
Additional Information:
10:00 a.m Hike: Join Rangers for a hike on the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife Drive along the Blackwater River and see snow geese, tundra swans and other wildlife native to South Dorchester County. The wildlife drive is flat and paved. Dogs are not permitted in the refuge.
1:30 p.m. Hike: Explore the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park and learn about Jacob Jackson’s role in Tubman’s emancipation of her brothers on a hike with Rangers. The trail is flat and natural and the area is undeveloped. Dogs are not permitted. Staff will transport guests to the location, registration is required as space is limited.
Herrington Manor State Park: First Day Hike
Garrett County
Time of Event: 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Herrington Manor Ranger Station (222 Herrington Lane, Oakland MD 21550)
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families.
Length of Trail: Approximately 1 mile
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Call Herrington Manor State Park at 301-334-9180 for information
Additional Information: A Ranger will lead hikers along the Yellow Trail, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the park. The route will pass the old Herrington Manor house foundation, and will loop through an old pine plantation passing an old private cemetery, the second largest red oak tree in Garrett County and end back at the ranger station. The hike is not stroller friendly.
Janes Island State Park: First Day Hike
Somerset County
Time of Event: 9 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the camper registration parking lot
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for families.
Length of Trail: Approximately 3 miles
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Call Janes Island State Park at 410-968-1565 for information
Additional Information: Bring your whole family and join a ranger for an approximately 3-mile hike along Dougherty Creek Canal, around the park boundary and throughout the forested fire trails in the interior of the park. This hike traverses a flat grassy path, suitable for some strollers, as well as some paved roads. Hikers can view wildlife including a variety of waterfowl, Whitetail deer, winter- roosting songbirds as well as local vegetation. Dogs on a leash are welcome. We have a few pairs of binoculars to share, but we always encourage guests to bring their own. The portions of the trail along the waterfront can be quite windy, please dress accordingly.
Martinak State Park: Tree Huggers Hike!
Caroline County
Time of Event: 2 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Martinak Nature Center
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Hike: approximate round trip distance of 1 mile
Things to Bring: Bring a mug for hot cocoa and a water bottle. Dress for the weather.
RSVP: 410-820-1668 or tuckahoe.statepark@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Join park staff on a fun family hike while learning about Maryland's native trees! Refreshments provided. Dogs on leash are welcome. Stroller Friendly. In case of poor weather, contact duty ranger (443-221-8285) to confirm.
Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary: Pups in the Park First Day Hike
Prince George’s County
Time of Event: 10 a.m.
Meeting Location: Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, Visitor’s Center
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Length of Trail: 3.5 miles. Hike will last approximately 2 hours
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Families are encouraged to call Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary at 443-510-9920 to register, or contact Kyle Prinkey at kyle.prinkey@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Join park staff for a 3.5 mile hike on Poplar Springs Trail to kick off your New Year right with your four legged friend! We encourage participants to bring their dogs along for this pet-friendly hike, however, participants without dogs are more than welcome, too! The trail will take you through the forests of Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary, passing by our award winning poplar tree. Afterwards, refreshments will be served at the Visitor’s Center where you’re welcome to stop in, learn about the history of the park, and meet some of our resident animals.
New Germany State Park: Community Heritage at New Germany
Garrett County
Time of Event: 3 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at New Germany Lake House (403 McAndrews Hill Road)
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families.
Length of Trail: Approximately 1 mile Orchard loop
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Call New Germany State Park at 301-895-5453 for information
Additional Information: During this easy winter hike, a ranger will talk about the history of New Germany as a 19th-century industrial community, a Civilian Conservation Corps camp and a state park. The hike will conclude with a warm fire and hot cocoa at the Lake House. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
North Point State Park: First Day Hike at North Point State Park
Baltimore County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Street Address: 8400 North Point Road, Edgemere, MD 21219. Meet in Parking Lot A (just beyond the Contact Station to the left).
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Hike: Approximately 2-miles roundtrip (~1.5 hours)
Things to Bring: Dress for the weather and bring water. Water-resistant boots are highly recommended. Wildlife viewing opportunities plentiful; bring binoculars if interested in birdwatching.
RSVP: Pre-registration recommended, but not mandatory. Contact Ranger Andrea Townsley-Sapp at andrea.townsley-sapp@maryland.gov
Additional Information: The Maryland Conservation Corps crew members will be leading this hike down the scenic Black Marsh Trail. Bring binoculars for bird watching and other wildlife viewing opportunities. History buffs will also enjoy learning about the historic Bay Shore Amusement Park and even seeing the 1900's trolley car powerhouse. Participants are encouraged to bring a lunch to enjoy at the picnic area overlooking the Chesapeake Bay after the hike. Friendly, leashed dogs with hiking experience are welcome. Trail not suited for strollers, but children are welcome.
Patapsco Valley State Park: Cascade Falls at Avalon
Baltimore County
Time of Event: 9:00 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Shelter 106 in the Orange Grove Area
Degree of Difficulty: Moderately Difficult
Length of Trail: The hike is about 2 miles, which will take approximately 2 hours.
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes (boots are preferred) appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Call Patapsco Valley State Park Headquarters at 410-461-5005 to RSVP.
Additional Information: Join the Maryland Conservation Corps as they lead you on a 2-mile, moderately difficult hike, with a few stream crossings and light rock scrambling on Cascade Falls Trail in the Orange Grove Area. Enjoy cascading waterfalls and winter hills and valleys. Afterward, warm up by the fire with hot coffee and cider at Shelter 106. Start your year off right with a first day hike!
Patapsco Valley State Park: Morning Start at McKeldin
Carroll County
Time of Event: 11:00 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Shelter 501 at the McKeldin Area- 11676 Marriottsville Road
Marriottsville, MD 21104
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate
Length of Trail: The hike is about 2.5 miles, which will take approximately 2 hours.
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes (boots are preferred) appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
RSVP: Reservations are not necessary. Call Patapsco Valley State Park Headquarters at 410-461-5005 for any further questions!
Additional Information: Join Ranger Petrucci on New Year’s Day at the McKeldin Area of Patapsco Valley State Park for our annual First Day Hike! We will hike 2.5 miles, incorporating parts of the Spring Glen, Tall Poplar and Switchback Trails. Start off 2019 on a positive note, and join us for a morning of exercise in the great outdoors!
Patapsco Valley State Park: Old Mainline Trail at Daniels
Howard County
Time of Event: 2:00 PM
Meeting Location: Parking Lot near the Daniels Dam - 2090 Daniels Road. Ellicott City, MD 21043
Degree of Difficulty: Easy
Length of Hike: 3 Miles
Things to Bring: Bring water, walking shoes, and seasonal clothing.
RSVP: Volunteer Ranger Max Buffington at maxbuffington@gmail.com
Additional Information: Join Volunteer Ranger Max Buffington on a hike along the old Mainline Trail and discover historic artifacts that are hidden in plain sight. Dogs on leash are welcome. Children should be over 10 years of age. No hike in inclement weather.
Patuxent River State Park: First Day on the Flowing Free
Howard and Montgomery Counties
Time of Event: 2 pm
Meeting Location: Patuxent Nature Center (23222 Georgia Avenue, Brookville, MD 20833)
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Approximately 2-mile roundtrip hike
Things to Bring: Cold weather clothes, sturdy shoes, water, thermos for hot drinks, and a camera for potential wildlife sightings
RSVP: Call us at 443-962-0216 or email at PatuxentRiver.StatePark@maryland.gov
Additional Information: The hike will follow the Flowing Free Trail, which connects the Georgia Avenue parking lot with Howard Chapel Road. The trail lazily follows the river, meandering across some small streams and through a lovely area of pine trees. We will go up and back along the trail. Upon returning, participants will be treated to hot drinks and snacks and welcome to warm up around a bright campfire. Dogs on leashes are welcome. This event is all ages, but the trail is not stroller accessible and small children may have difficulty. For those who do not necessarily want to hike, the nature center will be open.
Pocomoke River State Park: Self-Guided First Day Hike on the Trail of Change
Time of Event: Available All Day- choose a good time during daylight hours that works for you!
Meeting Location: Shad Landing Marina parking lot, 3461 Worcester Highway, Snow Hill, MD 21863
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for all ages
Length of Trail: 1 mile, round trip
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear warm clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (portions of the trail may be muddy), and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: N/A
Additional Information: Start the New Year on the right foot with a self-guided hike; trail pamphlets and winter scavenger hunts will be available at the Camp Store and trail head. Explore the Trail of Change and the wonders of the bald cypress swamp along the scenic Pocomoke River. Dogs on a leash are welcome. Restrooms are located downstairs at the Camp Store.
Rocks State Park: Winter Rocks Spectacular
Harford County
Time of Event: 11:30 a.m.
Meeting Location: Wilson's Picnic Pavilion - 3805 St. Clair Bridge Road, Jarrettsville, Md 21084
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate for families
Length of Trail: 1 miles round trip
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Families are encouraged to call Rocks State Park at 410-557-7994 to register
Additional Information: Soaring natural rock outcrops provide breathtaking views at the King and Queen Seat area of Rocks State Park. Join us for a hike to witness this spectacular sight, in winter - possibly the best time to visit! Dogs on a leash are welcome. Please be sure to wear sturdy footwear with good traction.
Rocky Gap State Park: Following a Settler's Footsteps- Finding your Path in 2019
Allegany County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Nature Center in the Rocky Gap State Park Campground (17400 Campers Hill Drive, Flintstone, MD 21530)
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate to challenging hike for families due to the length of the hike, natural surface trail tread and a short steep section
Length of Hike: A looped hike approximately 3 miles
Things to Bring: Dress for the weather, including sturdy footwear. Bring your own drinking water, however potable water will be available at the Nature Center for refills. Hiking poles are recommended for a more comfortable hiking experience.
RSVP: Monday- Friday, 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. at 301-722-1480
Additional Information: Bring out your inner adventurer! This hike will lead participants across the same mountainside that early settler Jacob Evitts explored. This hike utilizes all natural surface trails and is not accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, etc. Pets on a leash are welcome. Warm refreshments will be available at the Nature Center following the hike.
Sandy Point State Park: Sandy Point’s First Day Hike
Anne Arundel County
Time of Events: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Sandy Point Maintenance Shop, 1100 E. College Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21409
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike for all ages
Length of Hike: approximate round trip distance of 3.2 miles
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking. Hot chocolate will be available following the hike. To save on disposables, please bring your own mug.
RSVP: 410-974-2149 or claudia.padilla@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Join park staff to ring in 2019 with a brisk hike between 2-3 miles! Dogs on leashes are welcome. Not recommended for strollers.
Seneca Creek State Park: First Day Seneca Creek Hike
Montgomery County
Time of Event: 10 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Nuthatch Pavilion- 11950 Clopper Road. Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike.
Length of Hike: Round trip is approximately 2 miles.
Things to Bring: Weather appropriate attire, comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, and a thermos or mug for hot cocoa after the hike.
RSVP: Call (301) - 924-2127 or email SCSPNaturalist@gmail.com for more info.
Additional Information: Join us in hiking a 2 mile loop starting on the Mink Hollow Trail crossing onto a portion of the Lakeshore Trail, and finishing up on the Long Draught Trail. Dogs on leash are welcome however the trail is not stroller accessible and young children may have difficulty. Participants are welcome to gather around the campfire and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa after the hike.
Soldiers Delight NEA: Afternoon Stroll at Soldiers Delight
Baltimore County
Time of Event: 1 pm.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Soldiers Delight Visitor Center
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Trail: The hike is about 1 mile which will take approximately 1 hour.
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes (boots are preferred) appropriate for the weather, and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
RSVP: Reservations are not necessary. Call Patapsco Valley State Park Headquarters at 410-461-5005 for any further questions!
Additional Information: Join us for a casual hike along the Choate Mine Trail of Soldiers Delight Natural Environmental Area. Check out the Soldiers Delight Visitor Center before or after the hike.
South Mountain State Battlefield: Following the Footsteps of Civil War Soldiers
Washington County
Time of Event: 1 p.m.
Meeting Location: Appalachian Trail Parking Lot adjacent to the Old South Mountain Inn (6132 Old National Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713)
Degree of Difficulty: Easy to moderate hike for all ages
Length of Hike: 2 miles round trip
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather and bring water for drinking
RSVP: Call Greenbrier State Park at 301-791-4767 to register
Additional Information: Join a Park Ranger for a guided hike through history. Learn about important and stirring events from the Battle of South Mountain, while you hike along a road trace used by thousands of soldiers during the September 14, 1862 battle. The guided hike begins at Turner’s Gap and ends at Fox’s Gap. Participants will have the option to spend additional time exploring Fox’s Gap and hike back to the parking area on their own. Pets on a leash are welcome. There are no restroom facilities at this location. Hike is not stroller friendly.
Susquehanna State Park: Explore the Greenway
Harford County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at Fisherman's Park below the Conowingo Dam (2569 Shures Landing Road, Darlington MD 21034)
Degree of Difficulty: Moderate hike for families
Length of Trail: 2 miles round trip
Things to Bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather and bring water for drinking.
RSVP: Families are encouraged to call Susquehanna State Park at 410-557-7994 to register
Additional Information: Join a park ranger and see fantastic views of the Susquehanna River in winter. Dogs on a leash are welcome
Tuckahoe State Park: Macros on the Move!
Caroline County
Time of Event: 11 a.m.
Meeting Location: Meet at the Tuckahoe Lake Pavilion (13187 Crouse Mill Road, Ridgely, MD 21660)
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for families
Length of Hike: approximate round trip distance of 2 miles
Things to Bring: Bring a mug for hot cocoa and a water bottle. Dress for the weather.
RSVP: 410-820-1668 or tuckahoe.statepark@maryland.gov
Additional Information: Join park staff on a fun family hike in which we will be on the lookout for all the beauty nature has to offer! Refreshments provided. Dogs on leash are welcome. In case of poor weather, contact duty ranger (443-221-8285) to confirm.