New Yorkers are encouraged to celebrate the New Year by spending time in the outdoors of New York state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, trails and public lands across the state.
With the Empire State Trail near completion, residents along the 750-mile route — the longest multi-use state trail in the nation — can enjoy the great outdoors while supporting tourism and community revitalization. Information about the trail, including an interactive map detailing the route, designated parking areas and nearby attractions is available on the project website.
Walks and hikes are family-friendly, and typically range from one to five miles and are offered at more than 60 state parks, historic sites, DEC state lands, wildlife areas, Forest Preserve trails and environmental education centers.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and requirements for safe outdoor recreation, there will be no large group hikes this year. The options for hikes range from self-guided treks to staff or volunteer-led hikes with a limited number of participants. All hikes are subject to regional COVID-19 limitations. Masks or face-coverings are mandatory, and capacity restrictions may limit participation, so have some alternate locations in mind. Hikes will span Friday, Saturday or Sunday of January, allowing participants the time and space to social distance while still enjoying nature’s winter wonders.
A list of hiking opportunities in the Southern Tier region, along with contact information, is as follows:
- Bowman Lake State Park/McDonough State Forest, Oxford; 607.334.2718
- Catharine Valley Trail, Watkins Glen; 607.535.4511
- Chenango Valley State Park, Chenango Forks; 607.648.5251
- Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown; 607.547.8662
- Norwich Greenway North, Norwich; 607.336.4628
- Rogers Environmental Education Center, Sherburne; 607.674.4733
- Taughannock Falls State Park, Trumansburg; 607.387.7041 ext. 131
For more information, visit www.parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer mobile app or call 518.474.0456.
