First Day Hike

Join a Patapsco Valley State Park ranger for a "First Day" sunrise hike at Soldiers Delight NEA. We will meet at 7:00 a.m. sharp at the Soldiers Delight visitor center at 5100 Deer Park Road in Owings Mills.

Come witness the very first sunrise of the new year! After the sun has risen, we will take an hour-long easy to moderate hike along the Choate Mine Trail, approximately two miles. We'll pass the entrance to the old Choate chromium mine which, during its heyday in the early 1800s, was the largest producer of chromium in the world. We'll hike along the picturesque oak savannah and get a glimpse of the serpentine barrens for which the area is known, while enjoying the first sun of a fresh new year. Bring drinking water, dress for cold weather and wear water resistant hiking boots for uneven terrain.

Hikers are encouraged to register at 410-922-3044. Open to all ages! Viewing the sunrise at the Overlook on Deer Park Road at the beginning of the hike is handicap accessible. The hike itself is not. Pets on a short leash are welcome. Cost: FREE! Donations happily accepted.