DCR First Day Hikes

DCR invites you to step into the New Year with a First Day Hike!

Massachusetts is known for starting revolutions, so on January 1, 1992 when 380 people gathered for the premier First Day Hike at the Blue Hills Reservation it is no surprise that this Massachusetts outdoor initiative swept the nation.  DCR celebrates over 30 years of this tradition in Massachusetts.  Today, all 50 states are offering First Day Hikes in state parks across the country!

In 2025, we hope that you make state parks an important part of your exercise routine and your life.  Happy New Year!

First Day Hikes 2025 - Statewide Flyer

Know before you go

Whether you are a first-time visitor to a state park or a seasoned regular, DCR recommends visitors plan their hike before they leave home with these winter hiking guidelines in mind:

• Print or download a trail map at home.  Paper maps may not be available at state parks.  GPS signals may not available on smartphones in thickly-settled trails.  
  • For a list of DCR trail maps visit: DCR trail maps.
• Check the weather and dress for it.  Wear layers and sturdy footwear.  
• Know the trail conditions.  Keep it short and safe.  Stay clear of icy trails—or be prepared with traction devices and hiking poles.   
• Notify someone of your plans.
• Be flexible—if the park is busy or weather becomes harsh, please come back later in the week.
• Remember the sun sets early. Please be off the trails before sunset. Plan to be back at your car by 4:30 p.m. as it will be dark by then.
• Know which parks are pet friendly: 
  • Dogs are not permitted in DCR Water Supply Protection areas and several state parks.
  • Always keep your dog leashed.  Always pick up after your dog and dispose of waste properly.  For complete guidelines visit: Dogs in DCR parks.
• Remember visitor centers and rest rooms may be closed, so plan your hike accordingly.

Upon Arriving at the Park

• Stay home if you are not feeling well.
• Share the trails: Announce your presence as you approach, step aside to allow space for others to safely pass on the trail.
• Carry out all trash and belongings you carry in—including pet waste.

Locations

BOSTON

Pope John Paul II Park - Hallet Street, Boston, MA 02124

• First Day Hike at Pope John Paul II Park 

NORTH

Breakheart Reservation -  177 Forest Street, Saugus, MA 

• First Day Hike at Breakheart

Halibut Point State Park - 4 Gott Avenue, Rockport, MA

• First Day Hike at Halibut Point

Harold Parker State Forest - 700 Middleton Road, North Andover, MA

• First Day Hike at Harold Parker

Walden Pond State Reservation - 915 Walden St, Concord, MA

• First Day Self-Guided Hike at Walden

SOUTH

Blue Hills Reservation - 840 Hillside St, Milton

• First Day Hikes at Blue Hills

South Cape Beach State Park - 668 Great Oak Road, Mashpee, MA 02649

• First Day Hike at South Cape Beach

CENTRAL

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park -  287 Oak Street, Uxbridge, MA

• First Day Hike at Blackstone

Blackstone Heritage Corridor Visitor Center – 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester, MA

• First Day Hike Along the Blackstone River Greenway

Dunn State Park - 289 Pearl Street, Gardner, MA

• First Day Hikes at Dunn

Pearl Hill State Park - 105 New Fitchburg Road, West Townsend, MA 01474

• First Day Hike at Pearl Hill 

Wachusett Reservoir - 167 Temple St (Rt 140), West Boylston, MA

• First Day Hike at Wachusett Reservoir

WEST

Chester Blandford State Forest - 631 U.S. Route 20, Chester, MA

• First Day Hike at Chester Blanford

Great Falls Discovery Center - 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA

• First Day Hike at Great Falls Discovery Center - Canalside Rail Trail Stroll

Additional Resources

First Day Hikes 2025 - Statewide Flyer

Date published:	November 30, 2021
Last updated:	December 12, 2024