Massachusetts is where the American Revolution began, and it is also where the First Day Hikes started. On New Years Day in 1992, 380 people gathered at Blue Hills Reservation to welcome the new year with a walk in the woods. That simple idea grew into something big. Today, all 50 states offer First Day Hikes on January 1. As we prepare to honor the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in 2026, DCR is proud to celebrate this Massachusetts tradition that continues to inspire the nation.
Walden Pond State Reservation
January 1, 2026, 10:00am-2:00pm
Meeting Location: 915 Walden Street, Concord
GPS: 42.440411166877475, -71.33386127695215
Celebrate the New Year at Walden Pond State Reservation with a self-guided First Day Hike! Starting at the Visitor Center, walk down wooden ramp to Henry David Thoreau House Replica, cross at the crosswalk and walk on the ADA Accessible trail/Woods Path to site of Henry David Thoreau’s House. The route is a crushed stone surface, ADA approved, and easy. Go at your own pace and follow the interpretive signage along the way. Self-guided hike is approximately 1.5 miles, about 1 hour in duration.
Dress for the weather. No pets are allowed at Walden Pond State Reservation. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Warm up with hot chocolate after your hike at the visitor center, which will be open regular winter hours, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. This event is co-sponsored by Friends of Walden Pond.This program is free, please note that on holidays and weekends, Walden Pond often closes due to capacity. Check DCR Park Alerts for closures at mass.gov/parkalerts.
