The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Region 1 is hosting a First Day Hike event at the Ridge Conservation Area on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025. First Day Hikes encourages New Yorkers to welcome in the New Year outdoors by participating in one of the many guided hike opportunities offered across the state.

DEC, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, and the Canal Corporation are partnering to host these hikes as part of the 14th Annual First Day Hikes program. More than 120 hikes are being offered at State parks, historic sites, canal trails, and DEC natural areas and environmental education centers in celebration of the day.

A list of New York State First Day Hikes, location details, format, pre-registration requirements and additional information can be found online for DEC, Parks, and Canals. Interested participants are encouraged to check the details of their preferred host site and register where required. 

DEC Region 1 is hosting the following hike opportunity for the public: 

Suffolk County:

Ridge Conservation Area – Ridge Interpretive Trail 

Date: Jan. 1, 2025 

Time: This hike starts at 10 a.m. Please arrive 15 minutes early. This hike will take more than an hour. 

Meet Up Location: 484 Randall Road, Ridge, NY 11961 – Directions: Take Rt. 495 (L.I.E.) exit 68, north on William Floyd Parkway (CR 46) to Rt. 25 west. Travel 1/4 mile to right turn on Randall Road. The entrance is ~300ft on the left side. 

Available parking: 

• Randall Pond West Parking Area (Google Maps: 40.8967514°N, 72.8922272°W)
• Randall Pond East Parking Area (Google Maps: 40.898735°N, 72.8906174°W)
• Picnic Area parking (Google Maps: 40.8970222°N, 72.8931274°W)
  

Description: This is a 2.25-mile walk that will wind its way through the 184-acre Ridge Conservation Area. The completely guided hike features 14 interpretive posts describing forest, grassland, and pond habitats. This interpretive trail will provide scenic viewing locations and will take more than an hour. The hike is suitable for children who can walk this distance without assistance. The hike will leave promptly at 10 a.m. Please arrive by at least 9:45 a.m. so that organizers can form hiking groups if necessary. 

Difficulty Level: Trail is relatively flat with a few slight inclines. Short stops at 14 interpretive posts along the route. 

Special Instructions: Please be prepared for the COLD! Wear warm clothing in layers - long pants, hat, gloves, etc. Check the weather for Ridge Conservation Area and assume that the winds will produce wind chill. It is also suggested to bring water, binoculars, or a camera. Severe weather and/or unsafe driving conditions may cause cancellation. There is no age minimum for this hike, but children must be accompanied by an adult. No pets are allowed on this hike. 

Registration Required: Email Bill Fonda at bill.fonda@dec.ny.gov by Monday, Dec. 30. 

Point of Contact for Inquiries: Bill Fonda,  bill.fonda@dec.ny.gov