Ring in the New Year at World’s End State Park in Sullivan County. The Endless Mountains Heritage Region is partnering with World’s End State Park officials to host a “First Day Hike,” to celebrate the new year.
The hike is free, but registration is requested and can be done easily at www.EMHeritage.org/events. Participants should plan to arrive at World’s End State Park by 11 am on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, and proceed to the World’s End State Park office, at 82 Cabin Bridge Road, where they will hear about park improvements and upcoming events from DCNR’s Park Ranger, William Young.
Participants will then make their way to the Double Run Nature Trail, where they will embark on a roughly 2-mile hike with 350 feet of elevation gain while viewing stunning waterfalls along the way. This is considered a moderate hike on AllTrails, but only for its brief elevation gain to climb up the hill (we will be doing the climb in reverse). Hikers are asked to please bring appropriate hiking boots, along with spikes, in case of ice.
The backup plan for this trip, in the event of mild ice accumulation, will be walking the East Branch Trail halfway and looping back to the beginning of the trailhead on Route 154. This trail is considered easier and would be safer in the event of ice. In the event of severe weather and road closings, the hike will be canceled and participants will receive an email from the EMHR.
Along with safe hiking shoes and ice cleats/spikes, participants are asked to bring a sufficient supply of water and/or snacks with them for a duration of 2 hours and wear appropriate clothing for the winter weather (a winter coat, hats and gloves are encouraged). Any questions or concerns can be directed to Program Development Associate Rachel Flad at rflad@emheritage.org.
Registrants are encouraged to keep an eye on their email to receive updates from the EMHR.