Delaware Canal State Park celebrates new year with ‘First Day Hike’ in New Hope

Delaware Canal State Park will sponsor a free guided hike on New Year’s Day in New Hope as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes nationwide initiative. The family-friendly hike will take place on the Delaware Canal towpath at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve (lower parking lot) at 1635 River Road (Route 32) on Friday, Jan. 1, from 1 to 3 p.m.

“For the fifth consecutive year, First Day Hikes offer a great cure for cabin fever and a chance to burn off those extra holiday calories, and what better way to welcome the new year than with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks?” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn.

First Day Hikes will take place in state parks all across America, and will offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family. More information about First Day Hikes at Delaware Canal State Park is available online.  The hikes originated more than 25 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation – a state park in Milton, Massachusetts

“Last year, we hosted more than 1,200 people who hiked more than 2,881 miles in our state parks across Pennsylvania,” Dunn said. “The ‘Welcome Mat’ is out at our state parks, whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us New Year’s Day!”

In Pennsylvania, 23 state parks will offer First Day Hikes in 2016. At Delaware Canal State Park, First Day hikers will take a gentle 2-4 mile walk on the level terrain of the canal towpath and learn a little bit about canal history. Hikers will pass historical landmarks and scenic Delaware River vistas. Visitors can listen to birds, breathe in the fresh air, discover wildlife tracks, feel the wind and the warmth of the sun or the coldness of the snow. Visitors can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, experience spectacular views and vistas and benefit from the company of a knowledgeable state park guide.