Take a “First Day Group Hike” in Belleplain State Forest

What: A guided 6-mile hike through Belleplain State Forest hosted by the NJ DEP. There will be tea, hot chocolate, and homemade treats for humans and dogs after the hike!

When: Sunday, January 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Where: Meeting Location Belleplain State Forest Main Office Parking Lot- 1 Henkinsifkin Road Woodbine NJ 08270

The NJ DEP is hosting a guided 6-mile hike through Belleplain State Forest. There will be tea, hot chocolate, and homemade treats for humans 10 and older, and for your dogs, after the hike! But be sure to bring snacks and enough water for the hike itself.

This special New Year’s walk is hosted by Megan Ritter and her friendly dogs; she started this tradition five years ago and it has grown in popularity ever since.

The hike will be between 5.5 and 6 miles and should be doable for anybody without a disability. The DEP described the walk as “moderate” – make sure to wear supportive shoes and clothing fitting of a cold January day.

Registration is preferred but not required (walk ups welcome!) Contact Belleplain Office 609-861-2404 or email Megan Ritter at megan.ritter@dep.nj.gov for more information and about cancellations.

Header photo is of Blue Lake in Belleplain. Thom Hall/Shutterstock.com