2024 Maryland First Day Hikes

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released an invitation to the public to participate in the 2024 Maryland First Day Hike.

Maryland State Parks will be offering First Weekend hike opportunities across the state from December 31, 2023 – January 2, 2024.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks that encourages all 50 states to offer outdoor hiking opportunities to kick off the year.

For 2024, Maryland State Parks will offer more than 60 hikes across 40 state parks. As in previous years, there are two types of hikes available:

Ranger-led hikes: These hikes are accompanied and include interpretation by one or more Park Rangers, have specific start times, and often require advance registration. 

Self-guided hikes: These hikes will be available throughout the weekend, on well marked trails. Park staff and volunteers may be available to help hikers get started but will not join them on the trail.

With nearly 50 ranger-led hikes and 15 self-guided hike options through the weekend, there is a wide variety of outdoor adventures and experiences for every level of hiker and walker throughout Maryland. 

2024 First Day Hike Highlights:

In Western Maryland, hikers can join a ranger-led First Day “Fitness Hike” at Rocky Gap State Park, for those looking to break a sweat to kick off the New Year, a ranger-led guided “First Day Hike through History” at South Mountain Battlefield State Park, and a  “Little Naturalist First Day Hike”, an easy 1-mile hike for children and their families, at New Germany State Park. 

In Central Maryland, the Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail will offer bicyclists a guided “First Day Bike” ride; hikers have a choice of either an early morning First Day Sunrise Hike or First Day Sunset Hike at North Point State Park, and a “Last Day Hike” or “Kids Countdown Hike” on New Year’s Eve at Patapsco Valley State Park. 

In Southern Maryland, hikers can bring their four-legged friends on a “Trails and Tails” ranger-led First Day Hike at Calvert Cliffs State Park, join the guided “Where One Goes Pleasantly” First Day Hike along Mattawoman Creek at Smallwood State Park; or kick off the year with a “First Day the Rosaryville Way” hike at Rosaryville State Park.

On Maryland’s Eastern Shore, hikers can bring their binoculars for a guided “First Day Bird Walk” or bring their own horse for a “New Year’s Day Ride” at Tuckahoe State Park, a “First Sunset Hike” at Janes Island State Park, a “First Day Family Hike” along the beach at Assateague State Park. “I Hiked” stickers will be available at select locations while supplies last. 

In addition to scheduled hikes, all Maryland’s state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas will be open to all. Hikers should check the DNR website for information about public lands near them.

After taking part in a First Day Hike or visiting a state park, hikers are asked to complete an online survey to track their hikes and how many miles they covered.​ 

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

**2024 UPDATE**

A total of 4,248 people hiked about 10,691 miles during First Day Hikes in 40 different Maryland state parks on New Year’s weekend, according to Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 

Between Dec. 31, 2023 and Jan. 1, 2024, park rangers led 47 scheduled hikes and other programs with an additional 15 self-guided opportunities that were available on state public lands across Maryland.

Related Information

Things To Do in Maryland

Economic Impacts of Maryland State Parks

2021 Maryland First Day Hikes

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently released an invitation to the public to try a First Day Hike in Maryland.

First Day hikes are held annually in U.S. state parks to welcome the New Year.

This year, the Maryland Park Service will offer self-guided hike opportunities across the state from January 1-3, 2021. Trails will be open in Maryland state parks, state forests, and wildlife management areas.

This year, due to the pandemic and physical distancing guidance, hikes will be self-guided and park staff will not be leading the hikes.

First Day hikes in Maryland provide a variety of outdoor adventures and experiences for every level of hiker and walker.

Among those planning a hike will be Secretary Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio and Lt. Governor Boyd K. Rutherford, continuing his commitment to visiting all Maryland state parks and other public lands by the time he leaves office. Lt. Governor Rutherford and the secretary kicked off 2020 with a hike at Patuxent River State Park.

“First Day Hikes are a wonderful tradition; they start the year off on the right foot with fresh air, exercise, and the appreciation and enjoyment of Maryland’s beautiful state parks and public lands,” said Lt. Governor Rutherford. “With all the challenges of the past year, participating in a socially-distant, self-guided First Day Hike and enjoying quality time outdoors is the perfect way to welcome 2021.”

On New Year’s Day 2020, a record 5,000 hikers logged more than 10,000 miles on trails in parks and public lands all across Maryland.

Maryland DNR urges hikers to follow Maryland State Parks guidelines for outdoor exercise and recreation to slow the spread of COVID-19, including keeping a 6-foot distance from anyone outside their household and wearing a face covering when in close proximity to others and when indoors. DNR states that anyone who is sick or has been sick over the past two weeks should stay home to recuperate.

After completing a 2021 First Day hike, hikers are asked to complete an online survey to track their hikes and how many miles they covered.​

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide event sponsored by America’s State Parks.

UPDATE:

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources estimates that 16,237 visitors took part in First Day Hikes in Maryland State Parks during the three-day period from January 1-3, 2021.

Because there were no scheduled, staff-led hikes this year, State Parks were not able to calculate total miles hiked. A new DNR online survey indicated that 279 people voluntarily logged 966.5 miles.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Related Information

Things To Do in Maryland

Economic Impacts of Maryland State Parks

Maryland Lakes Protection and Restoration Fund Projects

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The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will undertake restoration projects at lakes throughout Maryland under the new State Lakes Protection and Restoration Fund, which provides $1 million for each of the next three years to improve state-owned lakes.

Governor Hogan approved the total $3 million fund in May 2018. DNR was tasked with determining priorities and a work plan for the funding.

Five public open houses were held around the state in the fall of 2018 to solicit project ideas, and the department’s lake managers also helped identify the most pressing needs to protect and restore the water bodies under their care.

Each of the lakes will benefit from at least one project. Deep Creek Lake, the largest state-owned lake and the economic driver for Garrett County, will receive approximately $420,000 divided between three projects. At least 41 projects will be funded statewide.

The funds will be used to remove sediment, treat contaminated sediment, prevent the spread of invasive species, improve ecological and recreational value, and any other action the department deems necessary.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival 2016

The 2016 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival will be held on Saturday and Sunday May 21 and 22 at Sandy Point State Park in Annapolis. The annual two day festival helps raise money for local charities.

Guitarist Joe Bonamassa will headline the festival. Bonamassa began his career opening for B.B. King in 1989, when he was only 12 years old.

The Robert Cray Band will close on Saturday. This will be Robert Cray's second appearance at CBBF, his first being in 2000.

2016 Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival Bands - Musicians - Artists

Saturday:

Robert Cray Band
John Mayall
The Mavericks
Sonny Landreth
Mud Morganfield
Danielle Nicole
The Chesapeake Bay Dixie Band featuring Patty Reese with the Dixie Power Trio and New Line Brass Band

Sunday:

Joe Bonamassa
Canned Heat
Tab Benoit
Heritage Blues Orchestra
Dana Fuchs
Ronnie Baker Brooks
Michael McHenry Tribe
For more information, visit www.bayblues.org.

Popes Creek Coastal Wetlands Acquisition

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MD DNR) was recently awarded a $1 million National Coastal Wetlands Conservation grant to acquire land in Charles County, Maryland.

The property along Popes Creek includes 92 acres of upland forest, 128 acres of wetlands, open water, and beach front.

Popes Creek is a conservation focus area, having been identified by MD DNR as both a Targeted Ecological Area and a Natural Heritage Area. It lies within the Zekiah Swamp area, which is a protection priority for the USFWS Chesapeake Bay Program, MD DNR, and Charles County.

The property will be held and managed by Charles County Department of Parks and Recreation. Plans for the site include the creation of a biking/walking trail along an abandoned railway bed.

Funding for the project was included in $16.5 million in grants which will go to support 21 critical coastal wetland projects in 12 states and Puerto Rico under the National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants Program.

The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and funded under provisions of the 1990 Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration Act.

Coastal Wetlands Conservation Program funds originate from the Sport Fish Restoration Act revenue which is generated via an excise tax on fishing equipment, motorboat and small engine fuels.

source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Maryland Outdoor Recreation Stakeholder Evaluations

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking citizens for their input on State outdoor recreation facilities and services in areas throughout Maryland. The Department gathered information from those in Southern Maryland earlier this month.

The recreational evaluations are the first step in a comprehensive statewide effort to enhance existing recreation areas in Maryland, these include; State parks, forests, wildlife areas and trails.

DNR will ask participants to assess the extent to which outdoor recreation facilities, programs and services meet the needs of the community and identify future demand and need.

The public input will help guide the update of the Maryland Land Preservation and Recreation Plan, which will serve as a roadmap for future State outdoor recreation facilities and services.

The Department has hired a nationally-known parks and recreation management consulting firm, GreenPlay, LLC, to oversee the Recreation Component of this planning process.




Maryland Outdoor Recreation Stakeholder Evaluations

Western Region - March 5 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Greenbrier State Park, 21843 National Pike, Boonsboro

Eastern Region -  March 6 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Talbot County Community Recreation Center, 10028 Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50), Easton

Central Region - March 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Howard County Robinson Nature Center, 6692 Cedar Lane, Columbia

Cost: Free

source: MD DNR

New Maryland ORV Permit Locations

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources recently announced that off-road vehicle (ORV) permits will be offered at three new locations.

Effective January 19, 2013, ORV permits will be available for purchase at Deep Creek Lake and New Germany State parks. The permits will also be offered at Savage River State Forest, beginning on January 22.

source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources

Maryland First Day Hikes

The Maryland Park Service will sponsor guided hikes in 19 State Parks on New Year’s Day 2013 as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes.

The nationwide program offers participants an opportunity to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family.

First Day Hikes in Maryland are family-friendly, easy to moderate, guided hikes led by Maryland State Park staff and volunteers.

Among the locations for First Day Hikes are:

 - Cunningham Falls, the longest cascading waterfall in Maryland
 - historic Turkey Point Lighthouse at Elk Neck State Park

 - Pocomoke River State Park on the Eastern Shore

 - Orange Trail at Cedarville State Forest

For a complete list of First Day Hikes in Maryland, including locations, difficulty, length and specific starting times, visit dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/firstdayhikes.asp

source: MD DNR

Greenbrier Lake Maintenance

Beginning in October, Greenbrier State Park staff will draw down about six feet of water from the park’s 42-acre lake to allow for maintenance work. The improvements include repairing the lake’s popular boat ramp and removing accumulated sediment for better boating access. 

While maintenance work is underway, an improvised launch area will be available for small boats. Park personnel expect the project to be completed in early February 2013. If all goes well, the lake should be refilled well before the 2013 spring trout season begins.

Source: MD DNR

Things to Do in Maryland USA

With an abundance of natural resources, diverse geography, historical landmarks, and thriving tourism industry, Maryland is one of the best vacation spots in the USA.

Several Maryland cities are famous for their culture. Baltimore is a historic city and bustling industrial port with an incredible number of weekly events and other things to do.

Annapolis, Maryland's capital, is home to the Naval Academy, numerous historical buildings, and one of the nation's most famous sailing ports. In the western part of the state, cities like Frederick, Hagerstown, and Cumberland have plenty of history and culture.

One of the state's most important attractions is the Chesapeake Bay. While the upper bay is famous for its cities, the middle and lower bay is mainly occupied by small to mid-sized communities. On the western shore in southern Maryland are the fishing communities of Deale and Solomon's Island.

On the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Chestertown, Easton, Saint Michaels, Cambridge, and Crisfield all have rich histories that are closely tied to the bay. In Tangier Sound, three small communities on Smith Island have been occupied by watermen for hundreds of years.

With scores of ports, Maryland is an excellent state for boating. Sailboat enthusiasts find the Chesapeake Bay to be an excellent body of water to explore. Cruisers, water skiers, and powerboaters also enjoy the bay and its many rivers.

In some areas, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and other paddlecraft are popular. These small but useful boats allow enthusiasts to explore areas where larger boats cannot travel. 

For anglers, the list of things to do in Maryland is incredible. The state has outstanding opportunities for fishermen, including freshwater as well as saltwater fishing. Freshwater anglers will find trout streams, rivers, lakes, farm ponds, and other fishing areas.

For those that prefer saltwater fishing, there are fishing piers, beaches for surf fishing, fishing aboard private boats, guided fishing trips, and deep sea fishing charters.

Nature lovers will also find plenty of activities in Maryland. Birdwatchers will find hundreds of species of birds, including songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, birds of prey, and other bird life.

The state also has plenty of mammals such as whitetail deer, sika deer, black bear, coyote, red foxes, gray foxes, skunks, raccoons, opossums, squirrels, chipmunks, groundhogs, and others. For herp enthusiasts, there are hundreds of species of turtles, snakes, lizards, frogs, toads, and other creatures.

For many visitors, Maryland beaches are a major attraction. On the Eastern Shore, Ocean City and Assateague Island attract visitors from across the nation. Just minutes apart, the two destinations offer totally different experiences.

Ocean City is a bustling beach resort that receives millions of visitors annually. This nationally recognized vacation destination features lifeguards, well maintained beaches, a historic boardwalk, amusements, restaurants, museums, and other attractions.

Just to the South, Assateague Island lies in stark contrast to Ocean City. This barrier island is occupied by Assateague Island State Park as well as Assateague Island National Seashore.

Its undeveloped beaches are occupied by wild ponies, deer, sea birds, and other wildlife. Visitors can swim, explore the island, collect shells, enjoy surf fishing, or simply enjoy the view.

Related Information

Things To Do on the Eastern Shore

Things To Do in Ocean City MD

Places To Visit in Baltimore Maryland

Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail

The Gunpowder South Trail will now be known as the Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail in honor of native Marylander Bernard Victor “Lefty” Kreh. Kreh is known worldwide through his books, columns and inventions.

The Lefty Kreh Fishing Trail runs along Gunpowder Falls between Prettyboy Reservoir and the Hereford Area of Gunpowder Falls State Park. The area is considered to be one of the premier trout streams in Maryland.

Kreh who now lives in Cockeysville, has written more than 30 books and has produced numerous instructional videos on fishing and outdoor photography. He continues to write and has a new book underway.

source: MD DNR

State Champion Sweet Birch Tree Discovered In Gunpowder Falls State Park

A new Maryland State Champion tree was recently found in Gunpowder Falls State Park. Dan Wilson, a volunteer with the Maryland Big Tree Program, located the massive sweet birch (Betula lenta) hidden deep within the Park.

The tree was found to be 115 feet tall, 10 feet 1 inch around and with a crown spread of 45 feet, equaling a total point value of 247. According to American Forests this is the tallest tree of its species on record. The previous sweet birch State Champion, with a point value of 237, is located in Cecil County.

The United States Champion is located in New Hampshire at 266 points. The Maryland champion appears healthy and could seize the national title in future years. The tree is also the largest of its species ever recorded in Maryland (dating back to 1925). The tree is located at GPS coordinates N39 32 093 W76 29 955.

The sweet birch is native to all of Maryland north and west of I-95, the tree can be found in counties south and east of that area but usually only sporadically and in small groups.

The name sweet birch comes from the sweet wintergreen flavor of its bark and twigs. The tree is also referred to as black birch because of its dark bark.

For more information, visit dnr.state.md.us/forests/trees/bigtree.asp

Maryland Geocaching Seminar

A free Geocaching 101 seminar will be taught by members of the Maryland Geocaching Society, from 9 to 10 a.m. on October 8. The seminar, hosted by New Germany State Park, will be held at the New Germany Lake House.

“There are a number of approved geocaches hidden in the park,” said Ranger Erin Thomas of New Germany State Park. “If you’re new to the game, this is a great place to get started.”

Geocaching is a world-wide treasure-hunting game in which participants use GPS units to locate ‘geocaches,’ which are containers that usually hold a logbook and other items.

Upon locating a geocache, participants are encouraged to take an item from the container and replace it with something of equal or greater value.

A limited number of GPS units will be available for loan during the class. For more information, contact 301-895-5453 or park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us.

source: MD DNR

MD State Parks Affected By Flooding

On September 9, 2011, the Maryland Park Service (MPS) announced that it had closed the several state park areas effective immediately, and until further notice, due to flooding from the recent heavy rains associated with Tropical Storm Lee

The closures include:

Patapsco Valley State Park

Glen Artney area of Patapsco Valley State Park is closed. All other areas of the park remain open, including the Hollofield and Hilton campgrounds.

Torrey C. Brown Rail Trail (formerly the Northern Central Railroad Trail)

The portion of the trail between Phoenix Road and Glencoe Road is closed.

Rocks State Park

Hills Grove area of Rocks State Park is closed. All other areas of the park remain open.

Susquehanna State Park

All areas along the Susquehanna River and Stafford Road (Deer Creek picnic area, the Historic area, Lapidum Landing boat ramp) are closed. All other areas of the park, including the campground, remain open.

For more information on flooding from Tropical Storm Lee and other weather systems, see this post on Mid Atlantic Flooding.

New Germany State Park Music Jams

New Germany State Park will be hosting “Old-Time Jams” during the 2011 summer season. The series allows musicians and spectators of all ages to share and enjoy traditional folk, bluegrass and other “old-time” Appalachian music.

The events will be from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every other Friday, starting June 10 and ending September 2, at the New Germany Lake House.

Admission is free and refreshments and gift items will be available for purchase at the New Germany Snack Bar & Gift Shop, located inside the Lake House.

For more information, please call 301-895-5453 or email park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us.

June is Great Outdoors Month

The month of June is "Great Outdoors Month " in Maryland.

2011 will be Maryland’s fifth year celebrating Great Outdoors Month, which is sponsored nationally by the American Recreation Coalition. June is an active time for recreation across the U.S., featuring hundreds of annual events, ranging from National Trails Day and National Boating and Fishing Week, to National Family Recreation Week and National Clean Beaches Week.

Saturday, June 25 is the Great American Backyard Campout, where families are encouraged to explore Maryland’s natural resources through camping. All Maryland State Parks with campgrounds are offering special programs.

Specifically, nine parks are offering special camping programs to families and organized groups including Scales and Tales, guided hikes, campfire cooking, owl prowls and kayaking. Parks included are Deep Creek Lake, New Germany, Dan's Mountain, Cunningham Falls, Elk Neck, Patapsco Valley, Sandy Point, Point Lookout and Pocomoke River State Parks.


source: MD DNR

Economic Impacts of Maryland State Parks

In 2010, 362,714 people visited Maryland’s State Parks during Memorial Day weekend, with approximately 6 million people making visits between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend.

“State Parks represent an affordable, relaxing way to connect with nature, family and friends,” according to Maryland Park Service Superintendent Nita Settina. “There’s a State Park within easy driving distance of every Marylander, allowing them to save money on gas, help the environment and still not have to make any sacrifices when it comes to their holiday adventure.”

Maryland’s State Parks not only provide great outdoor recreation for Marylanders and visitors, they are also a great asset to State and local economies. According to a recent study, conducted in partnership with the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development, the Maryland Office of Tourism Development and the Maryland Association of Destination Marketing Organizations, Maryland State Parks have an estimated annual economic benefit of more than $650 million. In 2010, visitors directly spent more than $567 million locally.

According to DNR Secretary John Griffin. “Our 66 State Parks not only provide those memories and tremendous recreational opportunities, but they also contribute significantly to our local economies.”

Assateague State Park Discount Admission

Admission to Assateague State Park will be reduced from Monday - Friday during the month of June.

Day-use area admission will be discounted to $2 per person for Maryland residents and $3 per person for out-of-state visitors.

For more information about Assateague State Park, visit:

www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/eastern/assateague.asp

Maryland Walk In The Woods Day Hikes

On Saturday May 21st, 2011, Maryland Park Service (MPS) and Maryland Forest Service is offering free guided hikes to celebrate the International Year of the Forest (IYOF) and National Walk in the Woods Day.

Hikes will be held on Saturday May 21 from 10 am - 12 pm in State parks throughout Maryland. Each hike is designed to give visitors an opportunity to explore the parks’ beautiful forest trails and will include breaks for photography, and reflection.

Participants should reserve a spot in advance and are encouraged to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic in the park after the hike.

Maryland Walk In The Woods Day hikes will take place at the following State Parks:

Pocomoke River State Park
Location: Shad Landing Camp Store
Registration: 410-632-2566 ext 106

Wye Island State Park
Location: School House Nature Trail Parking Area
Registration: 410-820-1668 or 410-827-7577

Patapsco Valley State Park
Location: McKeldin Area
Registration: 410-461-5005

Gunpowder Falls State Park
Location: Big Falls Rd and the Big Gunpowder Falls
Registration: 410-592-2897

Cunningham Falls State Park
Location: Falls Trail
Registration: 301-271-7574

Seneca Creek State Park
Location: Park Office
Registration: 301-924-2127

Swallow Falls State Park
Location: Trailhead at main parking lot
Registration: 301-334-9180

source: MD DNR

Maryland Park Service Volunteer Coordination System

The Maryland Park Service (MPS) has launched a new online statewide volunteer coordination system to make volunteering in state parks easier than ever.

Volunteers can now visit http://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/ and click on the “volunteers” tab to register with the new system and create a profile.

Opportunities can be searched by keyword, zip code and distance, specific interest, activity, availability and specific park name.

Users can also sign up for opportunities, enter volunteer hours and view their referrals and placements.

source: MD DNR