[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2025[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]

Contact: Caryn Shinske (609) 984-1795
Lawrence Hajna (609) 984-1795
Vincent Grassi (609) 984-1795

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NEW JERSEY STATE PARKS TO KICK OFF 2026 AND NATION’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS WITH FIRST DAY HIKES STATEWIDE

 

(25/P056) TRENTON – New Jersey State Parks is inviting the public to kick off a milestone 2026 by celebrating the new year and the nation’s 250th anniversary with a free, guided, First Day Hike through one of New Jersey’s state parks, forests or historic sites.

The coming year marks the 250th, or semi quincentennial, anniversary of the United States, commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Festivities throughout the year will take place across New Jersey and the nation, beginning in the Garden State with the annual First Day Hikes event.

“More than ever, this year’s First Day Hikes are an opportunity to get outdoors and appreciate nature by visiting our parks and forests, some of which bore witness to the American Revolution and fight for freedom,” said Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette. “Spending time with family and friends while enjoying the beauty of our environment is one of the best ways to appreciate the diverse landscapes of New Jersey.”

More than 30 hikes are planned for activity levels ranging from beginner to advanced. New Jersey State Parks aims to give people of all abilities an opportunity to experience nature and improve their physical and mental well-being.

Across New Jersey nearly 2,000 hikers participated in First Day Hikes on Jan. 1, 2025, collectively traveling 4,000 miles.

“As we kick off 2026 and the United States’ 250th anniversary, First Day Hikes invite everyone to celebrate this historic milestone by exploring New Jersey’s diverse state parks, forests and historic sites,” said John Cecil, Assistant Commissioner for State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites. “Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just beginning to explore the outdoors, there is a First Day Hike for every ability.”

Revolutionary War-Themed Hikes

All events are free. Some, however, require preregistration and are weather-dependent. A sampling of this year’s offerings include:

  • Perrine Hill: Where Molly Pitcher Fought — Hike 1.5 miles through the farm fields of Monmouth Battlefield State Park in Monmouth County, where Gen. George Washington commanded the Continental Army and Molly Pitcher fought during the Battle of Monmouth. This guided hike offers natural beauty along with stories of the people and events of the pivotal Revolutionary War battle that took place June 28, 1778.
  • Revolution to Recreation — Celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary as well as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), who worked to develop the recreational amenities in New Jersey’s state parks and forests. Participants will hike four miles along the CCC Trail in Bass River State Forest, Burlington County, to honor the work that supported Bass River State Forest.
  • Stars, Stripes & Strides: Step into 2026 While Honoring 250 Years — Join a two-mile hike at Spruce Run Recreation Area, Hunterdon County that follows a flat route with scenic reservoir views, fresh winter air, and an opportunity to reflect on 2025 while stepping into 2026.
  • Hope Farm Hogmanay Hike — Hike 3.1 miles around the historic bounds of “Hope Farm” at the Wallace House Historic Site in Somerset County to mark Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year celebration, while also learning about the Wallace House’s 250th birthday. Built by Scottish immigrant John Wallace, the Wallace House later became Gen. Washington’s headquarters during the Revolutionary War.

For a complete list of hikes and related details including trail descriptions and registration information, visit firstdayhikes.nj.gov. Those who prefer to hike on their own instead of with an organized group are encouraged to use the New Jersey State Parks Trail Tracker web application to explore the full selection of trails throughout the state.

New Jersey State Parks began participating in First Day Hikes when the program became a nationwide event in 2012. First Day Hikes began more than 20 years ago in Massachusetts State Parks at Blue Hills Reservation. The program was launched to promote healthy lifestyles and year-round recreation at state parks.

Year-Long 250th Anniversary Challenge

Those making New Year’s resolutions may consider joining the New Jersey State Parks 250 Challenge. The challenge encourages visitors of all ages and abilities to explore the state’s 41 parks, 11 forests, five recreation areas and more than 50 historic sites and districts while building healthy habits and celebrating this milestone year.

Choose among five challenges:

  • 250 Miles in a Year: For the avid hiker, biker, or walker, average just under five miles per week at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.
  • 25.0 Miles in a Year: Perfect for casual visitors, average two miles per month hiking or walking at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.
  • 25.0 Different Trails in a Year: Explore 25 different trails at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.
  • 2.50 Miles per Week: Walk, run, or bike 2.5 miles at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site. This steady, approachable pace totals approximately 130 miles in a year.
  • 25.0 Minutes per Week Outdoors: For all ages and abilities, spend 25 minutes per week outside at any New Jersey state park, forest or historic site.

“Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking to spend more time outdoors, the New Jersey State Parks 250 Challenge makes it easy to set, and keep, your New Year’s resolution,” said Rebecca Fitzgerald, Administrator for New Jersey State Parks. “With options for all ages and abilities, you can explore New Jersey’s state parks, forests and historic sites while building healthy habits and celebrating this milestone year.”

Join the New Jersey State Parks 250 Challenge and start tracking your progress here.

To learn more about New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites, visit stateparks.nj.gov.

Like New Jersey’s State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites page on Facebook at www.facebook.com/newjerseystateparks.

Follow the New Jersey State Parks on Instagram @newjerseystateparks

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