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New Year’s Day Hike to Liffy Island➤
On January 1st, I joined a group for a New Year’s Day hike to Liffy Island at Lake Hopatcong in New Jersey. This was the seventh annual hike hosted by the organizer, a tradition that brings people together to start the new year outdoors. The hike was at Liffy Island in Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey, part of Prospect Point Preserve.
The weather was clear, but it was brutally cold. Snow covered the trail, and a layer of ice made walking difficult. Although the hike was rated easy, the conditions made it much more challenging. It’s about three miles out and back.
The Hike➤
We followed the snowy, wooded trail toward Liffy Island. It didn’t take long for me to slip and fall on the ice. Fortunately, another hiker lent me microspikes for my shoes. They made it easier to get traction, and I was able to continue with the group. We took our time and watched our footing as we made our way through the woods.
Our destination was the footbridge over the icy lake. The snow-covered trees and frozen water made for a very different winter landscape than we would see on a warmer day. We carefully crossed the bridge and continued to the island.
Welcome to Liffy Island➤
One of the things we found on the island was a bell placed in memory of Mario Solarzano Jr. A sign beside it read, “Welcome to Liffy Island. Ring the bell to bring good cheer. So friends know you’re near.”
We all took turns ringing the bell and rested for a while before heading back toward the trailhead. It was a nice stopping point on a cold morning, and the bell added a personal touch to our visit.
Celebrating the New Year➤
Once we returned to the cars, we gathered for a group photo with the Take a Hike banner. We also toasted the new year with sparkling cider.
The icy trail made this hike more challenging than expected, but we completed the outing together. It was a good way to spend New Year’s morning, get outside, and start the year with a little adventure.
Location: 30 Florida Avenue, Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey
Designation: Municipal Nature Preserve
Date designated/established: 2002
Date of my visit: January 1, 2026
