Whether you’re trying to form a new habit, or simply indulging in having a day off from work, the first day of the new year is as good a time as any to go for a hike.

If you’re into organized, group hikes:

Go for a relaxed hike on Guilford’s Westwoods Trail

Learn about history and ecology at Haddam Meadows State Park

Hamden’s Sleeping Giant has re-opened — go hike it!

has re-opened — go hike it! Meet at the Goodwin Conservation Center in Goodwin State Forest in Hampton

If you’re into self-guided walks, I recommend:

Bolton Notch and nearby Valley Falls Park, both linked by the Hop River State Park Trail

Haley Farm State Park in Groton

Niantic Bay Boardwalk in Niantic

A few tips:

Unless you’re fine switching to a self-guided hike, call or email the group leader in advance to make sure the event has not been cancelled

Wear bright colors when hiking during hunting season

when hiking during Dress in layers and get your weather information from the National Weather Service instead of local television news

Where in Connecticut would you recommend taking a walk to start the new year?

All pics in this post are from the Bafflin Sanctuary and adjacent Air Line Trail State Park