4 Maine State Parks Will Host First Day Hikes on New Years Day

Mainers are invited to take a guided hike on New Year's Day and start the year off in a healthy way.

Maine New Year's Day Traditions Focus on Indoor Activities

When most of us think of New Year's Day, it usually involves sleeping late, taking aspirin (if we partied the night before), and watching football.

READ MORE: 11 Ways to Brighten a Maine Winter With Indoor Fun

In Maine, it isn't a typical time to think about going outside for a hike. The average temperature in the state on January 1st is usually just above or below freezing.

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands is Hosting Guided Hikes on New Year's Day

But a nationwide initiative is encouraging people to get outside on the first day of the year and enjoy some fresh air. Start healthy habits early, and enjoy the outdoors.

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The Guided First Day Hikes are being offered in four Maine State Parks:

• Camden Hills State Park
• Holbrook Island Sanctuary
• Sebago Lake State Park
• Two Lights State Park

There are also BPL self-guided hikes in:

• Bradbury Mountain State Park
• Camden Hills State Park
• Popham Beach State Park
• Reid State Park
• Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park

More information on all of them can be found on the website for the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry.

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands Wants Residents to Get Outside on New Year's Day

There are options, if hiking is not your thing, including cross-country skiing or building a snow sculpture.

The goal, obviously, is to get people outside, in some capacity, not necessarily on the hiking trails.

It sounds like an awesome idea, because so many Mainers stay inside all winter, glued to the television and the refrigerator. Yup, talking about myself here.

Just remember, if you're planning a winter outing, bundle up, layer for warmth, and have a cozy place to go once the fun is done.