DCR First Day Hikes on the North Shore

First Day Hikes take place at nearby State Parks nationwide on New Year's Day. The annual hike originated more than 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation in Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks. On the North Shore, there will be First Day hikes at Bradley Palmer State Park and Breakheart Reservation.

Harold Parker State Forest First Day Hike | 10am-Noon

Start off the New Year with an invigorating First Day Hike in a beautiful state park, and make a resolution to burn off those extra holiday calories! This will be a moderately paced hike of about 2 miles. Explore Harold Parker with other New Year’s revelers and afterwards warm up with a fire and some hot chocolate and refreshments from the Friends! Best for kids 8 and over. Be prepared for cold weather - dress in layers and wear winter boots.  Meet at the Harold Parker headquarters located at 305 Middleton Rd., North Andover

Breakheart Reservation First Day Hike | 10am-Noon

Start off the New Year with an invigorating First Day Hikein a beautiful state parkand make a resolution to burn off those extra holiday calories! We will have two guided hikesthrough the paved loops ofBreakheart.Be prepared for cold weather—dress in layers and wear winter boots. Bring your friends and family and afterwardwarm up in the Visitor Centerwith a cup of clam chowder generously donatedby Kelly’s Roast Beef. Meet at the Visitor Center at 10 am.

Halibut Point State Park Seaside Stroll | 1-3pm

Stroll along trails at edges of the last glacier. Enjoy the seasonal scenic splendor including wintering ducks and birds along this rocky coastal water’s edge. View from the Babson Farm Quarry edge the Ipswich Bay and beyond—all the way up the coast to Maine! Breathe in the fresh scent of seaside air with us and start your New Year healthfully!Be prepared for cold weather: dress in layers and wear winter boots. Dogs are welcome on-leash.