Outdoors in RI: Right Foot First – Make a Plan for the First Day Hike 2026

First Day Hike 2026- Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground – Narragansett, RI

For the 10th year in a row, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) invites the public to ring in the New Year with a First Day Hike at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground in Narragansett on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, anytime from 10 AM to 1 PM. First Day Hikes are part of a nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors.

“What better way to start the New Year than with family and friends at one of Rhode Island’s beautiful properties,” said DEM Director Terry Gray. “In their 10th year, First Day Hikes have become a tradition for many Rhode Islanders. We’re always looking for opportunities to get people outside, and we hope that you’ll join us at Fishermen’s Campground while exercising and connecting with nature.”

On January 1, 2026 America’s State Parks will kick off the new year and America’s Semiquincentennial with First Day Hikes!

First Day Hikes began in Massachusetts in 1992 and came on nationwide in 2012 under America’s State Parks. Whether it’s a hike, snowshoe, or even a swim, First Day Hikes are an opportunity for park visitors to start the new year on the right foot in the outdoors. These programs welcome new park visitors as well as those seasoned patrons for a variety of opportunities all across the country.

Massachusetts

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 Hill 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. Scroll down to find your First Day Hike, with locations, times, and details for DCR parks across Massachusetts.

If you are in that area, go HERE – https://www.mass.gov/info-details/dcr-first-day-hikes – to learn all the where’s and when’s for walks listed by north, south, east and west parts of the state.

Connecticut

And – Connecticut also has over 15 official Walks – go HERE for all the details – https://ctparks.com/events/first-day-events-hikes-and-walks

So, whether it is a walk around the block, in the woods, on an official path or WALK location, take a walk to usher in 2026.

In Rhode Island, the public is encouraged to participate in the ~1-mile self-guided loop hike on stroller-friendly paths and learn about the history of Fishermen’s Memorial. The walk will be held rain or shine; please dress accordingly. Commemorative pins are available for participants while supplies last. A food truck will be on site with refreshments available for purchase.

Depend on how you walk – fast paced, with seniors, with strollers, leisurely – here are some average times for a 1-mile walk:

Here’s a simple breakdown by pace:

• Leisurely pace (3 mph): ~20 minutes

• Average pace (4 mph): ~15 minutes

• Brisk/fast walk (4.5–5 mph): ~12–13 minutes

And – Happy New Year to all!