Maine State Park admission and hikes are free to First Day Hikers.

On January 1, four Maine State Parks will host guided First Day Hikes: Camden Hills State Park, Holbrook Island Sanctuary, Sebago Lake State Park, and Two Lights State Park. For those who prefer solitude or flexibility in scheduling, self-guided options are available statewide.

"Simply choose your favorite park and go," said Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, in a news release.

"First Day Hikes are a collaborative tradition across state parks nationwide, and right here in Maine, offering all of us an easy, joyful way to connect with the outdoors on New Year’s Day," said MDACF. "Whether it’s your first hike ever or your umpteenth year in a row, everyone’s welcome.

"Boots on trails, skis on snow, or footprints along the beach, spending the first day of 2026 outdoors offers the chance to reset, reconnect, and re-energize," said MDACF. "Grab a friend or bring the family. Step into the sunshine (or snowflakes). Take the trail less traveled, and begin 2026 with a First Day Hike."

Take Advantage of these BPL Self-guided Hike Guides:

• Bradbury Mountain State Park, Freeport - Download self-guided hike.
• Camden Hills State Park, Camden – Download self-guided hike.
• Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg - Download seashore activity pages.
• Reid State Park, Georgetown - Download the Little River Trail self-guided hike.
• Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park, Freeport - Download the self-guided hike

Research from the University of California, Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center highlights that three proven contributors to happiness and well-being are:

• Sunlight
• Social connection
• Exercise

"First Day Hikes combine all three wrapped up in fresh air and spectacular natural scenery, making January 1 a perfect moment to step into 2026 feeling energized and optimistic," said MDACF.

Maine State Parks also encourage participants to enjoy:

• Beach walks Cross-country skiing
• Snow sculpture building
• Self-guided walks at your own pace

Find details on all Maine First Day Hikes and self-guided options