UPDATED: Over 3000 People Hiked Maryland State Parks & 1400 Hiked Delaware State Parks on January 1st
Image courtesy MD State Parks
Over 3000 people took part in First Day Hikes in Maryland State Parks on January 1st. Hikers had over 50 different hike options statewide. Over 2000 took part in ranger-led hikes – over 4400 miles. Over 1100 hikers completed about 2300 miles of self-guided hikes. Maryland State Parks kicked off a new challenge for 2026 – Miles for Maryland. The State Park Service is challenging visitors to walk one mile for each year since the founding of our country – 250 miles.
Teams and hikers who register for the Miles for Maryland Trail Challenge and pay a $25 fee will receive a keepsake item. Those who hike 250 miles in Maryland State Parks in 2026 are eligible for a prize drawing.
Those who submit photos with their mileage reports will be entered for additional monthly prize drawings. Registration does not cover park entry – fees may apply. Click here for more information.
In Delaware, State Parks officials say the turnout was “amazing.” Over 1400 people and 66 pets hiked nearly 2900 miles on January 1st statewide. Officials say Killens Pond State Park in Felton hosted the larges hike with 224 people hiking the Cross Country Trail.