Delaware Canal State Park will sponsor two free guided hikes on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative.
The First Day Hike in New Hope is from 1-2 p.m. Meet at Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve lower parking lot, 1635 River Road (Route 32). Join Delaware Canal State Park staff for a short hike (3 miles or less; all ages and abilities welcome) on the towpath near New Hope. For more information, contact Ian Kindle at 610-982-0166 or e-mail [email protected].
Hikers will take a gentle walk on the level terrain of the canal towpath and learn a little bit about canal history. Hikers will pass Revolutionary War landmarks, such as the Thompson-Neely House and walk along a watered section of the canal.
First Day Hikes will take place in state parks all across America. More information about First Day Hikes at Delaware Canal State Park is available at http://tinyurl.com/DCSPcal.
”We are excited to host First Day Hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into our parks. First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks,” said Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks Director David Kemmerer.
”Last year, we hosted over 14,000 people who hiked over 30,000 miles in our state parks across the country when we launched America’s State Parks First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day 2012 in all 50 states,” said Priscilla Geigis, president of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). “To start 2013, we’re inviting kids and adults to get their hearts pumping and experience the beauty of our state parks at one of over 400 hikes nationwide. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day!”
”Studies have proven that getting outdoors is one good way to relax and recharge the body, mind and spirit.” stated Phil McNelly, NASPD’s executive director. “We hope that hiking along a trail in a state park will become part of an individual’s or family’s regular exercise routine.”
First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks.
Delaware Canal State Park also offers hiking, biking, and boating opportunities along its length. For a full list of upcoming programs, see below or visit the park’s online events calendar at http://tinyurl.com/DCSPcal.

