Celebrate the start of a new year with fresh air and exercise at Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, CT.  From 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, the Friends of Gillette Castle State Park are pleased to offer all visitors hot cider and trail maps that explain the many historic features that dot the grounds.  Visitors who pre-register at www.gillettecastlefriends.org can also participate in guided hikes of the route followed by William Gillette's narrow-gauge train system.  The guided hikes are scheduled to occur between 10:30 am and 1:30 pm.  Each hike is approximately an hour long, covering gentle and flat trails that have some brief climbs.  Guided hikes will be limited to 20 visitors each and advance registration is required at www.gillettecastlefriends.org.  Sturdy shoes and warm clothing are recommended for all participants.  Should you have questions, please reach out to the Friends of Gillette Castle at [email protected]