New York

Not all adventures have to involve scaling crazy-steep mountains or paddling down intense white-water rapids. Some of the best adventures are the relaxing and mellow ones right in our backyards. When I cannot get into the woods every day, I go to the Colonie Town Park, just 10 minutes from my hou...

Located in DUMBO this is seen as one of of the prime photography spots in NYC for good reason. Off the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street is a perfect view of the Manhattan Bridge sandwiched between two buildings. If you want to take it one step further you are able to get a close...

Take in two unique views of the Adirondacks on one hike. Rooster Comb offers a great 5.2 mile round trip hike that gives you some unique vantage points. Starting from the parking lot you cross over a nice wooden bridge to the trail registry. Remember to sign in. Next you'll come up on a pond in w...

Looking for a great family hike up in the Adirondacks? Take a look into Cobble Hill right off of Mirror Lake in Lake Placid. This is a perfect hike for those with younger kids and want to expose them to hiking. Cobble Hill has a little bit of everything all packed into the short distance. The ...

The Northern Forest Canoe Trail is a 740-mile paddling trail with the western terminus located in Old Forge, New York and the eastern terminus in Fort Kent, Maine. Section One is 43 miles from Old Forge to Long Lake. Camp at primitive sites or one of the several campgrounds along the way. This s...

Located across from the Ampersand Mountain trailhead on NY Route 3, a trail will take you a short walk (about a half mile) to this beautiful, quiet beach on the shores of Middle Saranac Lake. Starting at the trailhead, you will continue along an unmarked but clear footpath that trails through the...

Park at the trailhead located on County Route 18A just after the split from Whiteface Veteran's Memorial Highway in Wilmington, NY. There is a small parking lot for 4-5 cars and a pull off just ahead for another 3-4 cars. The trail begins at the back of the parking area. Following the contour of ...

This scenic byway starts in Fonda, NY and travels along Route 30 to Malone, NY.  The area described and pictured here is a 65 mile stretch from Mayfield to Indian Lake. Starting in Mayfield you will head north driving past the Great Sacandaga Lake. Continuing through the town of Hope  you will d...

This 2.2 mile loop trail is lightly trafficked and great for all skill levels. Starting out the trail register, you will see signs from The Nature Conservancy which manages the preserve. Descending down a hill with lots of exposed tree roots, you will then cross over the meandering Lisha Kill and...

The waterfall is not far from Watkins Glen State Park, just a few miles north on route 414 on the east side of the lake. If you are out chasing waterfalls, this is an easy and beautiful spot to make a quick stop. This is roadside, but there is plenty of shoulder along the road to pull off and ta...

Just a short ferry ride from the Hamptons, South Ferry Road is exactly where it sounds; very close to the South Ferry of Shelter Island. The parking lot of Mashomack Preserve is marked by a large sign. When you walk in, you'll see a large nature center. Sign in at a clipboard at the table out fro...

Practice bouldering at North America's largest outdoor rock climbing gym after work. Of course you aren't climbing mountains, but at least the view of the East River isn't too shabby! Enter at the corner of Adams St. and John St. and see the Manhattan Bridge above you. To your left is the new ...

From the West Trapps parking lot ($15 for hikers), walk to the end of the parking lot and past a large kiosk.  The trail connects the parking lot to the Overcliff Road/Undercliff Road junction.  The loop can be done in either direction.  I turned left on the Overcliff Road.  This takes you behind...

Looking for ice skating a bit more off the beaten path? Try Mirror Lake! Open 24/7! The best place to start is at the south end of the lake where you can also find a nearby shop to rent skates if you don't have them. If you do not feel like going on the 2 mile loop around the lake, you can stick ...

Get a feel for what New York was like in the 19th century at the Seaport! The Seaport boasts some of the oldest buildings and architecture in Manhattan, and the area continues to bustle today. The Seaport borders the Financial District and the East River - so there are lots of wonderful sights to...

The Ithaca area is known for waterfalls, this waterfall is maybe lesser known but still a great place to visit and photograph and is easy to reach. Ludlowville Falls is located in a small park called Ludlowville Park.  It is a beautiful and unique waterfall.