Monticello, New York

This is one of my favorite hikes in the Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A real mixed bag but mostly very enjoyable. The trail starts at the Charcoal Burners Trailhead Route 301. There is only road side parking on a soft shoulder, both sides of the road.  After a short walk into the forest, you re...

This approximately 3-hour hike borders the Hudson River, and is one of the best in Westchester County. Start off at the parking area at the Bear Mountain Tollhouse, or at a small parking area farther up Bear Mountain Road, if you want a slightly shorter hike. The trail is fairly steep in places, ...

There are no direct views from the summit, so it is recommended to take the .25 mile shoot-off trail to Hurricane Ledge for beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the spring, wildflowers line the trail. If you look carefully in the brush, you'll find wreckage from two old pl...

This is a 4.5 mile hike that is great for hikers of all skill levels. Because it is short and not overly difficult, beginners will enjoy this hike. There are some steep sections that will get your heart pumping, though, and a stunning payoff is waiting for you at the end.From the trailhead, follo...

Norvin Green State Forest is one of the best-kept secrets in the New Jersey Highlands — a rugged, rewarding stretch of the Ramapo Mountains that rewards hikers with rocky summits, cascading waterfalls, stream crossings, and sweeping ridge views. The 8-mile loop with 1,538 feet of elevation gain i...

Beaver Pond is a small body of water created by a dam that was constructed during the days of iron ore mining in the area.  The pond is crystal clear and has a wonderful tree line right on the water.  The best time to visit here is early morning in the fall.  With the leaves changing color they m...

Its a great place to explore as it has a beautiful calm lake especially in the fall, the reflection of the water and the awesome colors are unbelievable. Its a short hike but you certainly could go further up. Parking is free by the road, hike towards the lake about a mile or so. The sound of bi...

White Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Hardwick Township, New Jersey. The White Lake Loop in New Jersey is a relatively easy 3.8-mile loop trail located near Hardwick Township. This trail offers a peaceful hike through wooded areas and around White Lake, with sceni...

The trailhead parking is at the end of Timberbrook Road, before the road enters Camp Winnebago (Boy Scouts). I hiked this in a clockwise directions starting on the Timberbrook Trail (yellow markers).  After about 1 mile the trail ends at a junction with the Four Birds Trail (white markers).  Turn...

To start, I recommend coming in the early morning or afternoon, as the parking lot fills up with people hiking, fishing or going for a walk with their family. I usually get my luckiest before 9. This park is as relaxing or exciting as you want to make it. Here is a good map to use/ print out. We ...

The Kaaterskill Rail Trail begins near Haines Falls, New York heading toward North and South Lake. The trail is set in a gorgeous forest, and is used for hiking, trail running, and birding trips. The trail provides exceptional views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, forests, and towns. 

Please be respectful if visiting this local swimming hole. Pack out what you pack in, carry out others' trash, and familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles.  Hidden in the Catskill Mountains is one of the coolest cliff jumping locations I have ever been to. The first time I went was a...

Layman's Monument and Kaaterskill Falls is an out-and-back trail that takes you to one of New York's tallest waterfalls at 231 feet and to the historical monument for Frank D. Layman, who passed away in 1990 while fighting a forest fire. This trail is located near Haines Falls, New York.

This point to point hike can be done in either direction. There is parking at the entrance to Worthington Campground. Cross Old Mine Road and start up the Garvey Spring Trail (orange markers). The trail passes Laurel Falls on the right then ascends steeply until you reach an old forest road.  The...

King's Chamber and Moose Hill Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Carmel, New York.

This short hike is one of the most popular in the Catskills — and for good reason. From the Laurel House Road Trailhead, it’s less than a mile round trip to reach Kaaterskill Falls, New York’s tallest two-tiered waterfall, with a dramatic 260-foot drop into a rocky amphitheater. The trail itse...