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.
Blackstone River Greenway Visitor Center
January 1, 2026, Registration: 9:30am-10:00am, Hike: 10:00am-11:30am
Meeting Location: 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester
GPS: 42.236362426653436, -71.79572796441792
Registration required: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=Fh2GPrdIDkqYBowE2Bt7Kmip39phsSVPm9-TaYv7LxNUN1QyOEs2UkpMSFlVMFVGQ1hLODdMQlI5RC4u&route=shorturl
Celebrate the New Year at Blackstone Heritage Greenway Visitor Center in Worcester on a First Day
Hike! We will hike from the Visitor Center to the Millbury St. satellite parking lot and back, minimal
elevation changes on a paved bikeway, accessible and easy. Enjoy views of the Blackstone River and
keep your eyes peeled for both urban wildlife and evidence of the area’s industrial past. At the
turnaround point (Millbury St.), you will find the northernmost intact segment of the Blackstone Canal.
The hike is 3 miles, about 1.5 hours in duration. Dress for the weather and leashed dogs are welcome to
join.
Space is limited; registration is required. Registration begins at 9:30 am and hike begins at 10:00am. Join
us afterwards at the Visitor Center for hot chocolate. For more information, please call (508) 373-7056.
