New Year's Day Hike Taking Place At Passaic County Park

HEWITT, NJ — Ready to get 2024 off to a good start? Free, guided hikes are taking place on New Year's Day around the Garden State's parks, historical landmarks, and forests — including one at Wawayanda State Park in Passaic County.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection is inviting residents to "put your best foot forward" and learn more about nature and the history of their local parks with more than 30 First Day Hikes. All of the events are free and will have a guide, though pre-registration is required for some.

"These free First Day Hikes offer a great incentive to get outside, exercise, experience history, enjoy nature, and celebrate the New Year with friends and family in one of your state parks," the DEP said in an announcement earlier this week.

On Monday, Jan. 1, Wawayanda State Park staff will lead a hike beginning at 10 a.m., which is scheduled to end at 1 p.m. The 5.5-mile hike is on a moderate incline, going around the perimeter of Wawayanda Lake in Hewitt.

Registration is required by calling the park office at 973-853-4462 and leaving a message, or contacting the Wawayanda State Park Facebook page. Registered participants will be notified if the hike is cancelled.

The hike is for all ages, and dogs on a leash are welcome. The course is not wheelchair or stroller friendly. The meetup location is at the Beach Parking Lot - 885 Warwick Turnpike, Hewitt, NJ 07421.

The DEP’s State Park Service began participating in First Day Hikes after the program became a nationwide event in 2012.

All participants are encouraged to carry their own water and snacks, wear sturdy footgear, and check the weather to make sure they are wearing the right clothing before heading out.

And, if you want to explore on your own, click here for an interactive "trail tracker" for New Jersey's state parks.