Southbury Park Is Site For 'First Day Hikes' New Year's Day Initiative

SOUTHBURY, CT — A Southbury location is one of 17 in Connecticut tapped for Connecticut's celebration of First Day Hikes, a nationwide initiative to get outdoors.

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection placed Southford Falls State Park in Southbury on the list of state parks where in-person and self-guided hikes and programs will be offered on New Year's Day.

Located on the Oxford-Southbury line, the 169 acre Southford Falls State Park is the site of the old Diamond Match Company. It offers fishing, picnicking, field sports, hiking, ice skating, cross country skiing and sledding. A designated Trout Park, the park is open year-round at no charge from 8 a.m. to sunset. Pets on a leash are permitted in picnic areas and on hiking trails.

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 or walk at a state park or forest close to home. First Day Hikes offer a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature, and welcome the New Year with friends and family," according to a DEEP news release.

“A First Day Hike is a great way to start off the new year outside at one of Connecticut’s scenic state parks or forests. The variety of trails and geographic accessibility throughout the state means everyone can enjoy Connecticut’s natural beauty and fresh air,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes.

DEEP is advising cold-weather hikers to follow certain basic hiking safety tips.

First Day Hikes originated more than 25 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Massachusetts.