Planning a New Year's Hiking Trip
Day Hikes, Overnight Trips, and Ideas for Celebrating the New Year
Dec 29, 2008
The New Year’s holiday can be a great opportunity to plan a hiking trip. It is a chance to look back on the past year and celebrate the future ahead, while enjoying the great outdoors at the same time.
Planning a New Year’s Hiking Trip
The kind of trip one wants to take determines the amount of planning necessary. For instance, a short day hike on New Year’s Day where one has been before may only require preparing a daypack the night before. An overnight or multi-day trip may require more planning ahead of time. Some things to keep in mind include:
- Securing overnight camping permits, if necessary.
- Purchasing food and fuel.
- Having necessary clothing layers for changes in temperature.
- Coordinating schedules with friends for shuttling vehicles, time off from work, etc.
- If there is snow on the ground keep in mind winter camping basics for staying warm.
Day Hikes on New Year’s Day
On New Year’s Day get out with the family or a friend for a casual walk or the challenge of hiking to a high point.
- A nighttime hike at midnight to celebrate the beginning of the New Year. Bring along a star chart for clear nights.
- A sunrise hike to a high point, with a view to the east overlooking mountains, to welcome the morning sun.
- Climbing a hill or mountain-top.
- Visiting a local or state park.
- Snowshoeing in a local forest.
Overnight and Multi-Day Trips over New Year’s
During an overnight or multi-day trip, consider planning a route that will let the group camp near an inspiring place during the holiday. Perhaps there is a beautiful, secluded place that is off the beaten path from others, such as a meadow or waterfall. Another idea is camping out on a high point that allows one to have a great view of the sunrise.
Enjoying New Year’s With A Club
Outdoor organizations and clubs may offer a New Year’s Day hike or other kinds of trips. For instance, the Appalachian Mountain Club offers several options for its members, such as hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, and even a polar bear swim! Their activities search tool allows users to find trips by date, as well as by region, state, or AMC chapter.
Alcohol and Fireworks in the Backcountry
Use moderation if consuming alcohol in the backcountry, and do not operate vehicles or machinery. Do not engage in risky activities, such as skiing or climbing, while intoxicated. Remember to pack out any cans or bottles so as not to leave trash behind. Avoid using fireworks, especially in areas that have been designated dangerous for forest fires. Instead, enjoy the glow of a campfire in an established fire ring.
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