SOUTHERN MARYLAND — Start the new year on the right foot—literally—by joining First Day Hikes on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. Residents and visitors are invited to step outside and celebrate the fresh start with guided and self-guided hikes across Maryland’s scenic state parks.
As part of the nationwide First Day Hikes initiative coordinated by America’s State Parks, this annual tradition is all about fresh air, movement, and reconnecting with nature. Whether you’re a seasoned trailblazer or just looking for a fun way to ring in the new year, there’s something for everyone.
This year’s First Day Hikes also marks a special milestone—America’s 250th birthday, known as the semiquincentennial. The national initiative began in Massachusetts in 1992 and went nationwide in 2012 under America’s State Parks. Whether it’s hiking, snowshoeing, or even a brisk New Year’s Day swim, First Day Hikes offer a great way to embrace the outdoors and start 2026 on a healthy, active note. The program welcomes both first-time park visitors and longtime trail lovers with events happening across all 50 states.
Maryland State Parks will offer a variety of ranger-led hikes with scheduled start times, along with self-guided hikes available from sunrise to sunset. Some hikes require preregistration, while others are open for drop-in adventurers who want to explore at their own pace. Just bundle up for winter weather and check individual park websites for details before heading out.
So grab your boots, bring a friend or the whole family, and kick off 2026 with fresh air, adventure, and a walk in the woods.
Calvert County
Calvert Cliffs State Park
Hike Into the New Year – Ranger-Led Night Hike
Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
Time: Begins at 10:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025, continuing into early Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Meeting location: Pavilion
Address: 10540 H.G. Truman Road, Lusby
Participants will close out 2025 with a guided night hike along the Red Trail to the Chesapeake Bay, welcoming the new year on the beach before returning as a group. Flashlights, water, and cold-weather clothing are recommended. Registration by email is required. Restrooms are available at the park entrance, with portable restrooms near the beach.
Flag Ponds Nature Park
Guided First Day Hike
Distance: Approximately 2 miles
Time: 10 a.m.–noon, Jan. 1, 2026
Meeting location: Flag Ponds Nature Park
Ring in the new year with a guided hike led by a naturalist through Flag Ponds Nature Park. Participants will explore forested trails while learning about the site’s natural features, with an optional walk to the beach at the end of the hike for additional time outdoors. The hike is not stroller-friendly. Leashed pets are welcome.
This event is not on the DNR site, learn more here.
Charles County
Smallwood State Park
General’s Walk Trail – Self-Guided Hike
Distance: Approximately 2 miles
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Address: 2750 Sweden Point Road, Marbury
This self-guided hike begins near the historic tobacco barn and winds through wooded areas connected to the history of General William Smallwood. Hikers may spot winter wildlife along Mattawoman Creek. The natural surface trail includes exposed roots and some steep inclines. Leashed pets are welcome, and portable restrooms are available near the boat launch.
Chapman State Park
Stories in the Landscape: River Access and Potomac River Trails – Self-Guided
Distance: Approximately 2.75 miles
Time: Sunrise to sunset, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Address: 3452 Ferry Place, Indian Head
Hikers can explore river views, former orchards, and historic park features along this loop near the Potomac River. The route includes sandy woodlands, wetlands, and shoreline access. Leashed pets are welcome. Trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible.
St. Mary’s County
St. Mary’s River State Park
White Trail – Self-Guided Hike
Distance: 7.5 miles
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Starting point: Camp Cosoma parking lot
Address: 21250 Camp Cosoma Road, Leonardtown
Hikers can begin the year on one of Southern Maryland’s longer trail options, following white blazes through forested terrain. The trail includes gentle hills and may be muddy depending on weather conditions. Leashed pets are welcome. The trail is not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Portable restrooms are available at the parking area.
Greenwell State Park
First Day Hike on the Brown Trail – Ranger-Led
Distance: 1.5 miles
Time: 1 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026
Meeting location: Pavilion
Address: 25420 Rosedale Manor Road, Hollywood
This ranger-led hike offers a shorter, guided option for families and casual hikers. Participants will explore the Brown Trail with a park ranger while learning about the park’s natural features. Preregistration is encouraged. Leashed pets are permitted. The trail is not stroller or wheelchair accessible.
Planning Your First Day Hike
Maryland State Parks recommend checking individual park pages for entrance fees, parking details, and last-minute updates. Many hikes take place on natural surface trails and are weather dependent.
Statewide information, including additional parks and AllTrails-highlighted routes, can be found through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the official First Day Hikes listings here.
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