Hike into the New Year on the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

First Day Hikes are a great way to get the year started on the right foot. An initiative that first came out of Massachusetts in 1992, this tradition now led by America’s State Parks encourages people to get outside and get healthy while connecting with nature and their community. Enjoy these First Day Hikes and nature spots along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway!

Photo Credit: Judy Schneider

CraneOutdoors: First Day Hike in the Dunes, Ipswich

When: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Location: Crane Beach on the Crane Estate, 310 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA
Distance: 4 miles
Hosted by: The Trustees of Reservations
Details: This hike explores the heart of the Castle Neck trail system, giving you a taste of all it has to offer. It covers approximately four miles, but it will feel like more given the hills and added rigor of hiking in the dunes. Registration required.

First Day Hike at Halibut Point State Park, Rockport

When: 10:00am – 12:30pm
Location: Meet at 4 Gott Avenue, Rockport, MA 01966
Distance: 2.5 miles
Hosted by: Department of Conservation and Recreation and Friends of Halibut Point State Park
Details: Join the park staff for a seaside stroll and enjoy the seasonal scenic splendor including wintering ducks and birds along this rocky coastal water’s edge. Hike is approximately 2.5 miles and 2 hours in duration. Dress for cold, windy weather and wear sturdy boots. Leashed dogs are welcome.

Other First Day Hikes in Essex County…

First Day Hike at Harold Parker State Forest, North Andover

When: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Meet at Berry Pond, 700 Middleton Road, North Andover
Distance: 2 miles
Hosted by: Department of Conservation and Recreation and Friends of Harold Parker State Forest
Details: Celebrate the New Year as you walk from Berry Pond to Salem Pond and back! Dogs are welcome on leash. Enjoy hot cocoa by a warming fire after the hike.

First Day Hike at Breakheart Reservation, Saugus

When: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Meet at 177 Forest Street, Saugus
Distance: 2 or 3 miles
Hosted by: Department of Conservation and Recreation and Friends of Breakheart Reservation
Details: There will be two guided hikes offered, a 2-mile hike and a 3-mile hike, through the paved loops at beautiful Breakheart. You will see animal tracks, CCC projects, lower and upper ponds. Dress for the weather, wear winter boots, and leashed dogs are welcome to join. After the hike, warm up with hot chocolate.

Danvers Rail Trail First Day Hike

When: 11:00am – 12:00pm; meet at 10:45am
Location: Hobart Street Parking Lot, Danvers
Distance: 3-4 miles
Hosted by: Danvers Rail Trail
Details: Meet at the Hobart Street Parking Lot; the exact route will be determined day-of based on conditions. Children and dogs on leashes are welcome! Those preferring a shorter walk can start their return at any point along the way. Light refreshments will be available at the beginning of the hike.

Massachusetts State Parks Self-Guided Opportunities

When: Up to you!
Location: Essex County (and beyond)
Distance: Varies
Hosted by: Department of Conservation and Recreation
Details: Explore your local state park by going on a self-guided tour and creating your own adventure! The DCR has an extensive list of suggested hikes as well as resources to help keep the whole family engaged. Up along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, you can consider Salisbury Beach State Reservation in Salisbury or Maudslay State Park in Newburyport.