Greenbrier State Park and Fort Frederick State Park in Washington County are Two of Many Celebrating Family-Friendly and Invigorating Event.

"We are excited to host First Day Hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into our parks. First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful state parks," said Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina.

Greenbrier State Park and Fort Frederick State Park are two of Maryland's state parks participating. For more information, see: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/firstdayhikes.asp. There are seventeen parks participating across the state.

"What better way to kick off the New Year than with a hike at a state park?" said Ruth Coleman, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD). "Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day."

America’s State Parks boast a variety of beautiful settings for year-round outdoor recreation, and each First Day Hike will offer an opportunity to explore the unique natural and cultural treasures close to home. From California to Maine, hikers can climb hills and mountain tops, walk along ponds and beaches, and traverse trails through forests, fields and prairies. Visitors can listen to birds, breathe in the fresh air, discover wildlife tracks, feel the wind and the warmth of the sun or the coldness of the snow. Visitors can expect to be surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature in winter, experience spectacular views and vistas and benefit from the company of a knowledgeable state park guide.

"Studies have proven that getting outdoors is one good way to relax and recharge the body, mind and spirit." stated Phil McNelly, NASPD’s Executive Director. "We hope that hiking along a trail in a state park will become part of an individual’s or family’s regular exercise routine."

First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks. Many other states have offered outdoor recreation programs on New Year’s Day, however, this is the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes.

Join Ranger Gleason-Smuck on New Year’s Day at Greenbrier State Park for a "Walking in a Winter Wonderland" hike around the lake as he talks about wildlife and what they do in the winter to survive. Bring a thermos of your favorite hot beverage for after the hike. Degree of Difficulty: Easy for all ages, Distance: 1.5 miles.

Things to Bring: wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow, or shine), water for drinking, and a camera (optional).

Call Greenbrier State Park (301)791-4767 for more information. Dogs on a leash are welcomed. Greenbrier State Park is located at 21843 National Pike (US Route 40), on top of South Mountain, near Boonsboro, Maryland.

Fort Frederick State Park First Day Hike: Wildlife Adapting to Winter, Time of Event: 11 a.m. Hike will last approximately 1 hour
Meeting Location: Meet at the Beaver Pond Trail, approximately ½ mile past the Fort
Degree of Difficulty: Easy hike for all ages
Length of Trail: ¾ mile
Things to bring: Participants are asked to wear clothes and shoes appropriate for the weather (rain, snow or shine), and bring water for drinking, and a camera (optional).
For other information: Call Fort Frederick State Park at 301 842-2155.

Greenbrier State Park and Fort Frederick State Park are both members of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, see: www.marylandmemories.com.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages nearly one-half million acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.DNR.Maryland.gov.