HARRISBURG PA – Eighteen Pennsylvania state parks, including three in the Tri-County area, will sponsor free guided hikes on New Year’s Day (Jan. 1, 2013) from 1-3 p.m. to help visitors ring in 2013 with healthy exercise and a glimpse of nature’s winter beauty.

First Day Hikes are a 20-year tradition, part of a national effort organized by the National Association of State Park Directors. For the first time, parks in all 50 states are participating during 2012. Regionally, they include French Creek State Park in Elverson, Marsh Creek State Park just north of Exton, and the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center outside Reading.

“We are excited to join in hosting these hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors,” state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan said Wednesday (Dec. 26, 2012). “First Day Hikes offer a great cure for cabin fever and a chance to burn off extra holiday calories.”

Other participating Pennsylvania parks are Bald Eagle, Black Moshannon, Leonard Harrison, Kinzua Bridge, Ohiopyle, Moraine, Raccoon Creek, Pymatuning, Keystone, Kings Gap Environmental Education Center, Canoe Creek, Lackawanna, Promised Land, Nescopeck, and Delaware Canal.

Pennsylvania State Park staff members and volunteers will lead the hikes, which are usually less than two miles. Details about hike locations, difficulty, length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed online, here.

Photos from Google Images