Jason Williams skis Jan. 12, 2018, through the fog at Crescent Beach State Park with his dog Hana. The park is a few minutes from Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. Ben McCanna/Portland Press Herald file
Kick off the new year with a Maine State Park First Day Hike, part of the nationwide initiative led by America’s state parks to encourage people to get outdoors, are a combination of led and self-guided hikes, and virtual visits for 2025.
Guided Programs on Jan. 1, 2025:
Camden Hills State Park, Camden — Meet at the visitor center at 9 a.m. at 280 Belfast Road for a scenic 2.6-mile hike on the Megunticook and Adams Lookout Trails with Park Ranger Erik Hallsey. The Megunticook Trail is a moderately difficult hike that leads to the easy Adams Lookout Trail. Both trails provide scenic points that include excellent views of Penobscot Bay. Leashed pets are welcome. For more information, call 207-236-0849.
Holbrook Island Sanctuary, Brooksville — Participants can meet at 1 p.m. at the Backshore Trail parking lot on Indian Bar Road. The hike is a leisurely 1.5-mile walk for all ages. Warm beverages, water and snacks will be on hand at the start and finish of the walk. The guided hike will begin at 1:30 p.m. or explore on one’s own anytime during the afternoon. Wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Leash pets are welcome. For more information, call 207-326-4012.
Mount Blue State Park, Weld — Meet at 10 a.m. at the Park Headquarters, 299 Center Hill Road, at the yurt where hot drinks and a fire will be provided. This is an easy-to-moderate 1.5-mile history hike with several gentle hills and some rocks. All ages are welcome, but parents should be prepared to carry their children if they tire. Do not bring pets. For more information, call 207-585-2261.
Two Lights State Park, Cape Elizabeth — Participants should meet at 6:30 a.m. at High Head, at the rose garden or Route 77, for the sunrise. The hike begins at 7:30 a.m. This is a leisurely 0.75-mile loop hike along the shoreline and woodland paths. Parents must accompany children younger than 12. Leashed pets are welcome. For more information, call 207-799-5871.
Self-guided hikes include:
Bradbury Mt. State Park in Freeport, Camden Hills State Park in Camden,Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg, Reid State Park in Georgetown and Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport.
Download the self-guided hikes or seashore activity pages at maine.gov. Share hike photos and comments by tagging @mainedacf to Instagram and Facebook.
Virtual visits:
Experience or re-live the 2020 First Day Hike at Bradbury Mt. State Park, Pownal, with Gov. Janet Mills and a group of hikers who made the trek to the summit.
The Holbrook Island Sanctuary, Brooksville, offers a scenic natural area of upland forests, rocky shores, and an offshore island. Opportunities include hiking, nature appreciation and cross-country skiing in winter.
Check out other upcoming area events!
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