Monadnock State Park

Monadnock State Park will offer a new trail route for its First Day Hike this year, with limited reservations still available.

Participants are invited to join park staff for a one-mile self-guided hike along the Pond Loop Trail at Gilson Pond Campground. This relatively level loop winds through mixed woodland along the edge of Gilson Pond, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy scenic winter views. While the main loop is accessible and suitable for most hikers, several side trails are available for those looking to extend their hike; park staff will be available to provide guidance.

Following the hike, participants can gather around an outdoor fire to warm up with hot drinks and snacks, share stories, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the campground.

Registration check-in will take place from noon to 2 p.m., with the event running from noon to 3 p.m. Parking is available at the upper “Hiker’s” Parking Lot. Pets are not permitted.

The event will be held at Monadnock State Park, Gilson Pond Campground, 585 Dublin Road, Jaffrey. Limited reservations remain available. Registration is available at nhstateparks.org/first-day-hikes.

Pisgah State Park

Pisgah State Park offers a self-guided First Day Hike on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026 on the Doolittle Trail, beginning at the park’s Visitor Center, 520 Old Chesterfield Road.

The Doolittle Trail offers a mostly gentle, two-mile round-trip (out-and-back) hike suitable for all ages and experience levels. The trail features a comfortable, moderately easy grade with a few short, steeper sections and passes several historic sites. Near the western end of the trail, hikers cross a long footbridge over Broad Brook, offering scenic upstream views. The surrounding park landscape includes mixed hardwood and softwood forest, wetlands, and abundant wildlife, birds, and plant life.

Park staff and volunteers from the Friends of Pisgah will be on hand to answer questions and assist visitors. Warm drinks and a snack will be served fireside at the Visitor Center headquarters following the hike.

Check-in and onsite registration will be available at the Visitor Center from noon to 2 p.m. The event runs from noon to 3 p.m. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required for those arriving before 2 p.m. Registration is available at nhstateparks.org/first-day-hikes.

Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times; owners are responsible for pet waste. Hikes will take place rain, snow, or shine. Participants are advised to check the weather, dress in winter layers, wear appropriate footwear, and consider traction devices such as microspikes or YakTrax. Bringing water and a snack is recommended.

Silver Lake State Park

Silver Lake State Park’s self-guided First Day Hike, led by park staff and open to hikers of all ages and experience levels, explores the park’s scenic nature loop overlooking Silver Lake. Park staff will be available along the route to share insights about the landscape and local ecology.

Following the hike, visitors are invited to gather around a campfire near the beach to warm up with a hot beverage and snacks. The Beaver Brook Association will also be on site, offering hands-on outdoor education activities as part of the First Day Hike experience.

Check-in will be held from noon to 2 p.m., with the event running from noon to 3 p.m. Parking is available at the main park entrance. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times; owners are responsible for carrying out all pet waste.

Silver Lake State Park is located at 138 Silver Lake Road in Hollis. Registration is available at nhstateparks.org/first-day-hikes.