Start the new year outdoors!

Highlights of the hike will include stopping along the trail to learn about the animals and plants that call Overmountain home and catching the first sunset of the year with stunning Berkshire and Catskill Mountain views.

First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors. On New Year’s Day, hundreds of free, guided hikes like this one will be organized nationwide. Last year, nearly 55,000 people rang in the New Year hiking, collectively walking over 133,000 miles throughout the country!

What to expect: We will walk a mile along the Kestrel Trail over packed earth and mowed grass to the Kite Hill Gazebo, where seating is available. When individuals are ready, there will be a quarter-mile walk down the hill to return to the parking lot. Please bring a flashlight, as the return walk to the parking lot will be after sunset.

What to bring: Bring water and a light source (headlamp, flashlight), and wear weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. Social, leashed dogs are welcome, but please bring bags for waste!