Step into the New Year with Scenic First Day Hikes
Start your year off right with a First Day Hike in Northeastern Pennsylvania. There’s no better way to reflect, reset and embrace new beginnings than by immersing yourself in the crisp mountain air and peaceful beauty of NEPA’s winter landscapes. From snow-dusted trails to serene forests and breathtaking views, the region offers the perfect backdrop for a refreshing New Year’s tradition.
Prefer a little company on your journey? Join a group of fellow outdoor enthusiasts on an organized First Day Hike. These guided events are a great way to explore local trails and connect with nature.

January 1 at 2 p.m.
The Friends of Beltzville State Park and park staff will lead a 3.5-mile trek from the Environmental Interpretive Center to the tower on top of the dam. Hikers will be rewarded with a view of the lake. Dogs are welcome.
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January 1 at 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
Lackawanna State Park will host two guided First Day hikes, one in the morning for early risers and a second in the afternoon. Both will take hikers on a nearly 2-mile moderately difficult hike along the Snowflake and Frost Hollow Trails.
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January 1 at 10 a.m.
Welcome the new year with an easy 2-mile walk on the Lehigh Gorge State Park rail trail from White Haven south access to Tannery and back. Dogs are welcome. Registration required.
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January 1 at 1 p.m.
Venture out on this easy, 2.5-mile hike through Nescopeck State Park along the Nescopeck Creek to kick off 2025. Dogs are welcome. Registration required.
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January 1 at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Vosburg Neck State Park will host two First Day guided hikes to start 2025. The morning hike covers a moderately challenging 2.5 miles trek along the Vista Trail. At 1 p.m., hikers will enjoy a relatively easy 1.5-mile journey along the Canal and River Trails.
Learn MoreYour Winter Adventure Begins Here
Missing a First Day Hike doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the adventure. January 1st marks the beginning of a year full of possibilities for exploring Northeastern Pennsylvania’s network of trails and parks. Revisit beloved trails or uncover new favorites as you wander through glistening landscapes and tranquil forests. Layer up, grab your hiking poles and step into the crisp, refreshing beauty of NEPA’s great outdoors.

Blakeslee, PA
With 130 acres to explore, the Austin T. Blakeslee Natural Area has incredible views and trails for all skill levels. The shorter Pine and Highland Trails are a bit more laidback while the Red Blazed Creek Trail is a perfect intermediate hike for those seeking a bit of a challenge.
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Simpson, PA
Stretching 38 miles from Simpson to the Pennsylvania-New York border, hikers can hop on the D&H Rail-Trail all across NEPA. Whether you’re walking or cross-country skiing, you’ll see plenty of wildlife, stunning views and even a few historic sites along the way.
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Jessup, PA
Head up Moosic Mountain for one of the most incredible views of the valley. Dick & Nancy Eales Nature Preserve’s walking trail winds through secluded heath barrens and forests. For a truly stunning sight, catch a sunrise or sunset atop the peak.
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Wyoming, PA
Frances Slocum State Park is so much more than a summer family favorite. Take the Lakeshore Trail for views of the frozen lake or catch a glimpse of the park’s diverse wildlife and habitats on the Deer Trail.
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White Haven, PA
This 60-year old Francis E. Walter Dam doubles as one of the most tranquil spots to observe the beauty of the Poconos. The icy reservoir and snow-covered trails will leave explorers feeling like they are on another planet.
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Gouldsboro, PA
With trails of varying length and difficulty, Gouldsboro State Park has a bit of something for everyone. For a peaceful winter stroll, Old Route 611 keeps things breezy and scenic.
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White Haven, PA
There’s much to see and explore across Hickory Run State Park’s 44 miles of trails. Hickory Run Trail winds through frozen fields and forests. Meanwhile, the Fireline Trail presents a bit of a challenge, but leads to a stunning overlook of the Lehigh River.
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Scranton, PA
This easy 3.5-mile loop around Lake Scranton Walking Trail is ideal for wintry waterfront strolls. The flat, paved path makes this an accessible trail for adventurers of all abilities to have a laidback winter excursion.
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White Haven, PA
Hiking, cross-country skiiing and even snowmobiling are all on the table when you hit the 26-mile Lehigh Gorge Trail. Located within Lehigh Gorge State Park, explorers will come across icy waterfalls and historic ruins along the way.
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Jim Thorpe, PA
Just as beautiful as it is during the warmer months, Mauch Chunk Lake Park is truly a special place during the winter. Follow shorter trails along the lake and dam or take the Switchback Railroad Trail for a bird’s eye view of Jim Thorpe.
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Greentown, PA
Catch a glimpse of Promised Land State Park’s incredible wildlife in the quiet of winter. Explore more than 50 miles of trails while keeping an eye out for the park’s treasured bald eagle pair in the snow-covered trees.
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Blakeslee, PA
Follow a 2.2-mile loop trail through 2,500 acres of meadows and marshes. The Thomas Darling Preserve’s boardwalks make it easier to hike in winter conditions, ideal for viewing one of Pennsylvania’s largest spruce forests covered in snow.
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Northeastern Pennsylvania offers countless winter hiking spots, from serene state parks to hidden trails, where you can chase frosty waterfalls, snow-covered woodlands and sweeping mountain views.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 12/30/2020.