The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands will host free, guided hikes in five state parks on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. That initiative, held in all 50 states, offers individuals and families an opportunity to begin the new year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Jan. 1, 2015 at a state park close to home. 

In his weekly radio address, Gov. Paul R. LePage highlighted the increase of visitors to Maine and the abundance of winter activities available to residents and visitor alike.

“Last year, nearly 5 and a half million people visited Maine during the winter season, many to enjoy the outdoors,” said LePage. “We have some of the best skiing in New England and Maine is the premiere snowmobiling destination in the eastern U.S. We also have some of the most beautiful State Parks, which remain open all-year long. To ring in the new year, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands will host free, guided hikes in five state parks throughout Maine on New Year’s Day.”  

Commissioner Walt Whitcomb highlighted the natural connection between Maine’s outstanding recreational opportunities and a healthy lifestyle. “On nearly every New Year’s resolution list is the goal of better physical fitness,” said Whitcomb. “Our state parks make it easier to be healthy. Give the electronics a little time off and be healthier by enjoying our state parks. Last winter, beginning with our First Day Hikes, nearly 4,000 people participated in our Take It Outside/Winter Family Fun Days.”

“We are excited to host First Day Hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into our parks,” said Tom Morrison, Acting Director of the Bureau of Parks and Lands. “First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks.” 

Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the park.

Visit www.maine.gov/dacf/winterfamilyfundays and www.parksandlands.com to see complete event listings, review trail conditions and locate a park near you.

For more information about the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, go to: www.maine.gov/dacf.