Upstate New York First Day Hike Ideas

What better way to celebrate the first day of 2019 than to take a hike? The New York State DEC, as well as some private organization, host hikes at parks and preserves around the state. Here are a few upstate New York hikes we found for all levels, in the Catskills, Adirondacks, and Capital Region.

Hudson Valley/Catskills

• Kelly Hollow: Sponsored by the Catskill Mountain Club
• First Night Hike & Snowshoe: Catskill Interpretive Center
• First Day Hike at Sam's Point: Snowshoe or hike at the Minnewaska State Preserve

Adirondacks

• Prospect Mountain: Hike to the top of this mountain overlooking the southern end of Lake George
• Poke-O-Moonshine: Climb to the firetower atop this mountain overlooking Lake Champlain in the northern Adirondacks

Capital Region

• Five Rivers Environmental Education Center: Great event for family members of all ages exploring nature trails at this preserve just south of Albany
• Saratoga Spa State Park: Explore the geysers and other beautiful natural features of this beautiful park and end with hot cocoa
• Thacher Park: Experience the Helderbergs in southern Albany County on a hike through this park

Check out one of my favorite Adirondack trail guides.