After the excesses of the holiday season, an invigorating way to start 2019 is to get outside, take in fresh air and become one with nature.
The New Jersey State Park Service can help you with that. “First Day Hikes” are being held across the state, with trails offered right in our backyard. Conquering one of these trails could be your first great adventure of the New Year.
BELLEPLAIN STATE FOREST – Woodbine
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
This trail covers half the distance of the trail. Hikers are advised to dress for the weather and bring water. Dogs are welcome. Two and four-legged hikers will meet at Belleplain State Forest Office at 1 Henkinsifkin Road, Woodbine, NJ 08270.
Hike Info
Moderate ~ 3.5 miles.
No age restrictions. Dogs on a leash are welcome.
Registration is NOT required. For more information, call (609) 861-2404. The hike will be cancelled if there is extremely bad weather.
PARVIN STATE PARK – Pittsgrove
1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Come explore the history of Parvin State Park and imagine what things were like 90 years ago. Hikers will meet at the Nature Interpretive Pavilion at 902 Parvin Mill Road, Pittsgrove, NJ.
Hike Info
Easy ~ 2 miles
Children with parents/guardians are welcome. The park is dog friendly. Please dress appropriately and bring along binoculars and cameras. Restrooms are available.
Registration is required. For more information and to register, email parvinvolunteers@gmail.com. Cancelled if rain or snow. Please check Parvin State Park Appreciation Committee, Inc.’s Website, Facebook, Twitter or call (856) 981-6100.
RANCOCAS STATE PARK – Westampton
11 a.m.
Join Burlington County Park Rangers for a hike at Rancocas State Park. Meet at the Rancocas Rd. entrance between Irick Rd and the Westampton municipal building.
Hike Info
Easy to moderate ~ 3 miles
Children ages 6 and up, with responsible adult, are welcome.
Service animals allowed only. Restrooms are available halfway through the hike.
Registration is not required. For more information, please call Burlington County Parks office (609) 265-5858.
WHARTON STATE FOREST / ATSION RECREATION AREA – Shamong
10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
The Outdoor Club of South Jersey will be leading this hike into the Pinelands. Hikers will meet at the field next to the Atsion Recreation Office at 744 US-206. The group will carpool from the meeting area to the trailhead at Hampton Furnace.
Hike Info
Moderate pace ~ 6 miles
Children parents/guardians are welcome. Paths are not wheelchair accessible.
Bring lunch and beverage. No restrooms, only pit toilets.
No registration required. For more information, email cdenneler157@yahoo.com. For cancellation notice please visit ocsj.org.
