What will you be doing on New Years Day 2025? Come celebrate it with us at Ridley Creek State Park. The Friends of Ridley are again hosting a First Day Hike along the Equestrian Trail, beginning promptly at 10 am, Wednesday, January 1, behind Pavilion #8. Gary Sawyer will lead a 3.5-mile lollipop loop with views of the creek and a stop at the historic hilltop Russell Cemetery. It is expected to last 2 to 2 ½ hours. The hike starts at the parking lot behind Pavilion 8, descends to the creek at Gradyville Road, passes by an area recovering from a tornado in 2019, and winds around a lovely wooded section up and over Hunting Hill and the Russell Cemetery. The trail is wide, mostly gravel, with good footing. Be prepared for early January weather conditions, and for elevation gains of about 350 ft. We will have hot chocolate, coffee, and light refreshments at the trailhead after the hike. We have a limit of 25 participants for the hike. Dogs are allowed on leash at all times. Please register by email to Gary at [email protected] to secure a spot,