NH State Parks Celebrates the New Year with First Day Hike on January 1, 2013

Concord, New Hampshire - The New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation, Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forest and Eastern Mountain Sports will sponsor a free, guided hike at Monadnock State Park and at Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site on New Year’s Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states.  America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offer individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on January 1, 2013.

“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 is 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 Phil Bryce, Director of New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. “We are fortunate to collaborate with wonderful partners to help provide First Day Hike activities at Monadnock State Park and Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site.”

At 10:00am on January 1st, park staff and volunteers will lead an easy to moderate hike, which is about one
to two miles. Day-use fees will be waived for all visitors at Monadnock State Park and Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site on January 1, 2013.

Eastern Mountain Sports will display a range of outdoor recreation gear while providing information and demonstrations for their use. Complimentary healthy hot drinks and snacks will be offered as well.

“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!”

First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

About the Division of Parks and Recreation
The Division of Parks and Recreation is comprised of the Bureau of Park Operations, Bureau of Historic Sites, Bureau of Trails, and Cannon Mountain. The Division manages 92 properties, including state parks, beaches, campgrounds, historic sites, trails, waysides, and natural areas. The Division of Parks and Recreation is one of four divisions of the Department of Resources and Economic Development.  To learn more, visit www.nhstateparks.org, follow NH State Parks on Facebook and Twitter, or call 603/271-3556.

Attached: Photo from 2012 First Day Hike at Monadnock State Park, courtesy of NH Division of Parks and Recreation.