August 2010

8/7 (Sat) STONY BROOK – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Stony Brook is a large and lovely mountain stream that merges with Pine Meadow Brook in the southwestern part of New York’s Harriman State Park. We’ll be hiking alongside the brook for a couple of miles on a relatively new trail, enjoying the sound of the water during an extended lunch break, and also stopping at nearby Lake Sebago. While most of the hike is easy, some stretches of trail are a bit rough, rocky and hilly.

8/8 (Sun) SHAWANGUNK CLIFFS - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10-11 miles). NY’s Shawangunk Mountains are commonly considered to be the most impressive mountains this side of the Catskills. Today we'll be taking a hiking route over the open rock ledges and cliffs in the southwestern part of Minnewaska State Park -- with superb views along the way -- and in the afternoon stopping for a swim break at Lake Awosting.

8/14 (Sat) CATSKILL ESCARPMENT - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). On this hike we’ll be exploring the wild northeastern Catskills, climbing via trail up to the Catskill Escarpment south of Blackhead Mountain for a great view of the mountains and valley below. The first and last 3 miles are easy, but before lunch we’ll ascend (and later descend) 1,200 feet on a trail that’s rugged and steep at times. On our way out we’ll take a break at a lovely waterfall on East Kill Creek (with a pool suitable for a dip).

8/15 (Sun) NEVERSINK RIVER - Catskill Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6-7 miles). Today we'll be hiking alongside the lovely Neversink River, which runs down through a relatively remote wilderness valley in New York’s southern Catskills. Much of our route is on unmarked trail, and while the terrain is mostly easy (with some hills), we may have to work our way over and around some fallen tree branches, and some stretches of trail are rocky.

8/21 (Sat) KAATERSKILL FALLS / NORTH LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). The Catskills are home to some of the most impressive and unspoiled mountain scenery in southern New York State. Our hiking itinerary will include a visit to the top of 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls (highest waterfall in the state), a series of wonderful views from high cliffs, and a stop for a swim at North Lake. There are a couple of short, steep, and very rocky stretches of trail.

8/22 (Sun) INDIAN HEAD MOUNTAIN / ECHO LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (13 miles). Today’s hike, in the spectacular mountains of NY’s eastern Catskills, begins with a steep, rocky, 1500-foot trail-climb to the top of Indian Head Mountain (3,573 ft) for some terrific views and a lunch break. After descending we'll continue hiking over much easier trail to scenic Echo Lake, where we’ll take a swim break. Total elevation gain and loss of the day will be over 2,500 feet. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

8/28 (Sat) ISLAND POND – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). We’ve long had an easy-moderate summer hike to Island Pond (this year on 7/17), but today we’re following an entirely different (and easier) itinerary to this lovely mountain lake in the northwestern part of New York’s Harriman Park -- passing through some beautiful hemlock forest en route, and taking a morning break at a scenic spot at the lake that we hadn’t previously visited as a group. It’s hilly hiking, but most of today’s inclines are gradual.

8/29 (Sun) HASECO LAKE – Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (11-12 miles) Today we’ll be hiking to beautiful Haseco Lake (also known by the lowly name Mud Pond), which we couldn’t visit for many years because the trail beyond the lake had been closed by a private landowner (land that’s now thankfully part of the park). We’ll have lunch on some splendid cliffs with outstanding views. Our morning route will take us along the north shore of Lake Awosting, and on our way out we’ll stop at the south shore for a swim. There are no major elevation changes, but some of the trail is quite rocky.

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September 2010

9/3-6 (Fri-Mon) SACANDAGA RIVER / SIAMESE PONDS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Join us on Labor Day Weekend as we return to the southern part of the splendid Siamese Ponds Wilderness in New York's enormous Adirondack Park (which is the size of the state of Vermont). This area features the East Branch of the lovely Sacandaga River, 67 lakes and ponds, small mountains, and other magnificent wilderness scenery. We'll be hiking in 4-5 miles on a mostly easy trail to camp near the river, our first visit to this particular area in 3 years. From here, easy to moderate day hikes to the Siamese Ponds and other beautiful lakes are available. You’re also welcome to spend one or more days relaxing by the river. Departure will be early Friday morning and we’ll return Monday evening (Labor Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through June 3, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 6/3/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended -- holiday weekend trips often fill weeks or months in advance. Since cancellations sometimes occur, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $215, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $315, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

9/11 (Sat) APPALACHIAN TRAIL: HUDSON HIGHLANDS TO FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Today we’ll be hiking the Appalachian Trail corridor from Hudson Highlands State Park (in New York’s Hudson Valley) to Fahnestock State Park, which will take us thorough some beautiful mountain forest and over little mountaintops with a couple of fine vistas. There are no major climbs but plenty of ups and downs over sometimes rocky trail.

9/12 (Sun) STEENEYKILL LAKE - High Point State Park (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (6 miles). High Point State Park includes New Jersey's highest elevations (the highest being 1,803 feet). Most of today’s hike is within the Dryden Kuser Natural Area, which features a lush cedar swamp with rhododendron and conifers, plus fine mountain vistas. We'll also stop at scenic Steeneykill Lake. Much of the hiking is easy, but some of the terrain is rocky and there are a couple of steep hills.

9/18 (Sat) MILLBROOK MOUNTAIN / SHAWANGUNK CLIFFS – Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7-8 miles). The spectacular cliffs of the Shawangunk Mountains are justly famous, and Millbrook Mountain is said to have one of the highest sheer drops east of the Mississippi. Today's itinerary includes some rough stretches of trail. Among the rewards are a number of magnificent views, including from the huge rocky cliff known as “Gertrude’s Nose.”

9/19 (Sun) WINDHAM HIGH PEAK / BURNT KNOB – Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (11 miles). On this trip we’ll be hiking to the top of the northernmost peak in New York’s Catskills, 3524-foot Windham High Peak (1880 ft. elevation gain), and then over 3180-foot Burnt knob. The day’s total elevation gain will be over 2500 feet, with a few steep stretches, and we’ll be rewarded by some spectacular mountain vistas. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who can maintain a reasonably brisk pace.

9/25 (Sat) WARD POUND RIDGE RESERVATION (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). 4,700-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is the largest and one of the loveliest parks in New York’s Westchester County. Our hiking itinerary will take us through some attractive deciduous forest, with pine and hemlock groves, and to a couple of fine viewpoints. It’s very hilly but otherwise easy.

9/26 (Sun) MT. MOHICAN - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (NJ). MODERATE HIKE (11-12 miles). This hike includes a scenic and sometimes very rocky section of the Appalachian Trail as it follows the ridges of the Kittatinny Mountains (elevations over 1,500 feet) above the Delaware River and the NJ-PA border. After a 1000-foot trail-climb (some of it steep) we'll have great views from Mt. Mohican and Catfish Mountain, and part of our initial climb is alongside a beautiful mountain stream.

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October 2010

10/2 (Sat) STERLING FOREST - Sterling Forest State Park (New York / New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Established in 1998 and located about 40 miles northwest of NYC, this important 18,000-acre state park protects a wild and lovely mountain area that had been slated for development. After a fairly steep 700-foot trail-climb we'll follow a route along Sterling Ridge, which offers several wonderful vistas. Along with easy stretches there are short but steep climbs to rocky knobs.

10/3 (Sun) PAWLING NATURE RESERVE (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). This is a rather large and little-known tract of wild forest in Putnam County. Several miles of trails run through the reserve, including the Appalachian Trail. There’s a fine vista from a ridge, a lovely hemlock gorge with a little waterfall, and a splendid sense of isolation. It’s mostly easy hiking with a couple of very steep hills.

10/8-11 (Fri-Mon) PHARAOH LAKE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Join on Columbus Day Weekend as we return to the enormous and spectacular (6-million-acre) Adirondack Park, which has more designated wilderness than any other location in the eastern U.S. We’ll be revisiting the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, where there are scores of lovely lakes and ponds situated amid prominent rocky-topped mountains. We'll be walking in 5-plus miles with backpacks along mostly easy trails to camp near Pharaoh Lake, the largest and most beautiful body of water in the region, and then taking optional easy to moderate day hikes (among the options are a 7-mile loop around the lake and a 1,400-foot climb of 2,555-foot Pharaoh Mountain, which offers wonderful views). You’re also welcome to spend one or more days relaxing by the lake. This is fall foliage time in the Adirondacks, and the colors are often splendid here on Columbus Day Weekend. It will also be our final camping trip of the season. Departure will be early Friday am and we’ll return Monday evening (Columbus Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through July 8, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 7/8/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Since cancellations are possible, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $215, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $315, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

10/16 (Sat) BLACK ROCK – Black Rock Forest (New York) EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we’ll be exploring the scenic trails in the northwestern part of Black Rock Forest, less than 60 miles north of NYC -- and also hiking to Black Rock, where there’s a terrific view of the Hudson Valley and Hudson River. Terrain is very hilly and while there are no major climbs today, there will be several short, steep, and rocky ascents and descents.

10/17 (Sun) MT. FRISSELL - Taconic State Park (NY). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8-9 miles). Today we'll be climbing Mt. Frissell, at 2,453 feet the highest point on the western ridge of the Taconic Range, in an unusually beautiful and unspoiled wilderness. We'll be walking in 3 different states (NY, CT, MA) on this hike! The climb to the ridge is steep; views are wonderful. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who can maintain a reasonably brisk pace.

10/23 (Sat) MACEDONIA BROOK STATE PARK (Connecticut). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). Located in western Connecticut, Macedonia Brook State Park is a large and beautiful tract of wild forest with small but rugged mountains. Elevations changes are not great, but the hiking trails are rough and steep in a few places (with one especially rugged and steep descent). There are great views from the top and shoulder of Cobble Mountain (1,380 feet).

10/24 (Sun) LAKE HOPEWELL / HUNTINGTON STATE PARK (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Huntington State Park is a lovely 700-acre tract of wild forest in southwest Connecticut. Along with a feeling of remoteness there are several attractive lakes, including large and beautiful Lake Hopewell. The hiking here is easier than on most of our easy hikes, with just a few hills.

10/30 (Sat) LAUREL POND - Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). One of NJ's lesser-known parks, 18,000-acre Wawayanda State Park is a tract of mostly wild and unspoiled forest, including areas thick with rhododendron and cedar, featuring 255-acre Wawayanda Lake. Our hike will include a stop at beautiful Laurel Pond. It's easy but hilly walking with a few rough spots.

10/31 (Sun) CANDLEWOOD HILL / FAHNESTOCK RIDGES - Fahnestock State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). Utilizing some relatively new trails, we’ll be hiking through the south-central part of scenic Fahnestock State Park. Highlights include 986-foot Candlewood Hill -- a small mountain -- which features some of the park's finest views. We'll also stop at two beautiful mountain streams. Some of the route is rocky with occasional steep pitches.

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November 2010

11/6 (Sat) BLACK ROCK CLIFFS & PONDS – Black Rock Forest (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). Today we’ll be returning to beautiful (3,800-acre) Black Rock Forest, about 60 miles north of NYC, following an itinerary that we’ve only offered once before, a few years ago. We’ll be ascending Whitehorse Mountain and several other small mountains, hiking past several different ponds, and enjoying fine vistas from rocky cliffs. There are lots of ups and downs, with a few steep stretches of trail.

11/7 (Sun) LAKE MINNEWASKA - Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (7 miles). The Minnewaska area in the Shawangunk Mountains (near New Paltz, New York) has long been known for its unusual beauty. We'll be utilizing old carriage roads today to explore the lake and surrounding mountains, with superb views from multi-leveled cliffs. It's mostly easy hiking.

11/13 (Sat) TUMBLING WATERS GORGE / POCONO RIM - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Pennsylvania). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we'll be visiting PA's eastern Poconos near the Delaware River. Highlights include a lovely gorge with waterfalls and pools, and a vista of the Delaware River Valley. There are a couple of steep but relatively short trail-climbs. The rest of the hiking is hilly but on the easy side.

11/14 (Sun) BREAKNECK RIDGE / SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN - Hudson Highlands State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (7-8 miles). On today’s hike we'll be climbing famous Breakneck Ridge (1,200 ft.), which rises up precipitously from the Hudson River. The views are the most dramatic and impressive to be found anywhere along the Hudson. Some of the trail is very steep and rugged. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who can maintain a reasonably brisk pace (when appropriate).

11/20 (Sat) TIORATI BROOK - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Tiorati Brook is a large and beautiful mountain stream that runs through the north-central part of Harriman Park, just an hour northwest of NYC, and includes some little waterfalls. On today's mostly-easy hiking itinerary, with a few sizable hills, we'll explore some scenic forested trails and rest by the brook at two different locations.

11/21 (Sun) STORM KING / BUTTER HILL – Storm King State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles) New hike! For several years we’ve offered a moderate-strenuous hike on rugged Storm King Mountain, which towers above the Hudson River, and this will be our first moderate one here. The distance is shorter than on most of our moderate hikes, but we’ll get plenty of exercise: the hike starts with a steep climb of several hundred feet to the top of Butter Hill, and many of today’s trails are especially rough and rocky. We’ll be rewarded with some of the most spectacular vistas available anywhere along the Hudson.

11/27 (Sat) HIDDEN LAKE / JOHN ALLEN POND – Fahnestock State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). New hike! For the first time we’ll be hiking to rarely-visited Hidden Lake, and then having lunch at beautiful lake-size John Allen Pond, in the middle of 14,000-acre Fahnestock State Park -- largest park in New York east of the Hudson River, where we have a number of different hikes each year. Today’s trails are sometimes rocky and hilly, but most of the hills are on the small and gentle side.

11/28 (Sun) WAWAYANDA MOUNTAIN – Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). For today’s hike we’ll be returning to scenic 17,000-acre Wawayanda State Park, which lies just south of the NJ/NY border. Following the famous Appalachian Trail, we’ll have a semi-steep and rocky 800-foot trail-climb to the top of 1,470-foot Wawayanda Mountain, which offers a couple of fine vistas. The rest of today’s itinerary is over mostly gently hilly terrain that includes a beautiful hemlock ravine with a stream, where we’ll have our lunch break.

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December 2010

12/4 (Sat) ROUND HILL / HUBBARD-PERKINS RIDGES (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). Today we'll be re-visiting the Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area, in NY's Fahnestock State Park, an area of scenic forested mountain ridges, lovely streams, and beautiful lakes. There are several semi-steep ascents to rocky knobs, along with easier stretches of trail. Hiking highlights include an especially fine vista from the top of Round Hill.

12/5 (Sun) DUNDERBERG VALLEY - Bear Mountain State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Today we’ll be following several trails and old woods roads to circle around the scenic valley between Dunderberg Mountain and Bear Mountain, near the Hudson River. Included will be a stop at a beautiful mountain stream with a sizable waterfall, and we’ll be walking through a bit of the long-abandoned historic village of Doodletown. Our route includes some major (but mostly gradual) hills.

12/11 (Sat) HOOK MOUNTAIN CLIFFS – Hook Mountain State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). New hike! The past few years we’ve offered a 12-mile moderate hike on precipitous Hook Mountain, which overlooks the Hudson River north of Nyack. Today we’re premiering a new, shorter, easy-moderate version of that hike, which starts with a mostly-gradual (but occasionally steep) 700-foot ascent. The rest is much easier, with a couple of big hills and a long nearly-flat stretch alongside the river. Views from the mountain cliffs are splendid.

12/12 (Sun) BEAR MOUNTAIN / WEST MOUNTAIN – Bear Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (10-12 miles). New York’s famous 1,284-foot Bear Mountain is an impressive mountain with striking features, and it offers spectacular vistas overlooking the Hudson River. We’ll start with a steep 1000-foot climb of the mountain, and after descending we’ll climb nearby West Mountain. Total elevation gain and loss is well over 2,000 feet, and some of the trail is extremely rough and rocky. For experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

12/18 (Sat) BUTLER SANCTUARY (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we'll be heading for Butler Sanctuary, owned by the Nature Conservancy, and one of Westchester County's little-known gems of wild land. This lovely tract includes a network of winding trails, hemlock groves, and a little gorge with a beautiful mountain stream. There are many hills and some rough spots along the way.

12/19 (Sun) PINE MEADOW LAKE - Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Many would agree that Pine Meadow Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Harriman State Park, and it's one of the few that's relatively isolated. Today's hiking itinerary will take us over several small mountains with fine views, and we'll have lunch on a rock outcropping before descending to the lake -- after which we’ll follow a lovely stretch of Pine Meadow Brook. Some occasionally steep and rocky trail-climbs are included.

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January 2011

A NOTE ABOUT CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING TRIPS: On most weekends in recent winters we haven’t had enough snow for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in local mountain areas, so we now schedule day hikes for every Saturday and Sunday in January and February -- but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips will be added to our schedule whenever enough snow materializes for these activities. If you’re on our e-mail list you’ll receive announcements of any schedule changes, including the likely addition of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips.

Please note: winter trip locations are always tentative and subject to change up to the last minute in the event of weather-related changes in trail conditions. For more about our cross country ski trips and what's involved, click on the Trip Information page and go to "Information About Winter Trips".

1/8 (Sat) ISLAND POND – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). On this hike we’ll be following an easy route to lovely lake-size Island Pond in the northwestern part of New York’s Harriman Park -- passing through some beautiful hemlock forest en route, and taking breaks at two different scenic spots along the lakeshore (one at each end of the pond). It’s hilly hiking, but most of today’s inclines are gradual, with brief rocky stretches of trail.

1/9 (Sun) LETTERROCK MOUNTAIN / LAKE ASCOTI – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10-12 miles). Today we’re offering another hike in the north-central part of NY’s Harriman State Park, featuring several small mountains, little waterfalls on Tiorati Brook, and beautiful Lake Ascoti. Included will be a couple of miles of semi-bushwhacking, following some unmarked paths on Letterrock Mountain.

1/15 (Sat) LADENTOWN MOUNTAIN - Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-9 miles) Our hiking itinerary today will take us through the southern part of Harriman State Park (which is about 40 miles northwest of New York City), featuring fine vistas from small mountaintops, beautiful mountain streams, and several lakes and reservoirs, including scenic Third Reservoir, where we'll have lunch. Most elevation changes are minor but there will be a few short, steep climbs over rocky trail.

1/16 (Sun) STONY BROOK – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Stony Brook is a large and lovely mountain stream that merges with Pine Meadow Brook in the southwestern part of New York’s Harriman State Park. We’ll be hiking alongside the brook for a couple of miles on a relatively new trail, enjoying the sound of the water during a lunch break, and also stopping at nearby Lake Sebago. While most of the hike is easy, some stretches of trail are a bit rough, rocky and hilly.

1/22 (Sat) OSBORNE PRESERVE / HUDSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). The beautiful Osborne Preserve is part of Hudson Highlands State Park, east of the Hudson River. We'll be following several trails -- including a section of the Appalachian Trail -- through this scenic area, which includes dense stands of mountain laurel. It's very hilly but relatively easy hiking, with one short, steep climb to a fine vista.

1/23 (Sun) DUNDERBERG MOUNTAIN / TIMP / WEST MOUNTAIN – Bear Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8-9 miles). Today we’ll be hiking to the tops of three sizable mountains south of Bear Mountain, starting with a steep 1,000-foot climb of Dunderberg Mountain. Our total ascent will be well over 2,000 feet, and the trails are extremely rocky and rugged here. All three mountains offer wonderful vistas. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

1/29 (Sat) BLUE MOUNTAIN RESERVATION (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles).On this hike we’ll be returning to Blue Mountain Reservation, near Peekskill, which features scenic forested terrain with a couple of lovely lakes. Highlights include a view of the nearby Hudson River from the top of Blue Mountain (665 ft.), accessible by a short, semi-steep climb. Occasionally hilly but otherwise the hiking is easy.

1/30 (Sun) LAKE LOOKOUT – Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles). Today's hike in Wawayanda State Park will take us a number of miles to lovely Lake Lookout, and through an enormous expanse of rhododendron forest and cedar swamp (the significant bear population in the area should be hibernating). Elevation changes here are less than on most of our moderate hikes (the rating is primarily because of the distance), but the terrain is hilly and some of it’s rocky, and it could also be muddy if the ground isn’t frozen.

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February 2011

A NOTE ABOUT CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING TRIPS: On most weekends in recent winters we haven’t had enough snow for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in local mountain areas, so we now schedule day hikes for every Saturday and Sunday in January and February -- but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips will be added to our schedule whenever enough snow materializes for these activities. If you’re on our e-mail list you’ll receive announcements of any schedule changes, including the likely addition of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips.

Please note: winter trip locations are always tentative and subject to change up to the last minute in the event of weather-related changes in trail conditions. For more about our cross country ski trips and what's involved, click on the Trip Information page and go to "Information About Winter Trips".

2/5 (Sat) PINE MEADOW BROOK - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we'll be hiking a hilly and sometimes very rocky trail alongside scenic Pine Meadow Brook, which includes an area with giant boulders and cascading water. Before returning we'll also pay a visit to beautiful Pine Meadow Lake.

2/6 (Sun) BLAUVELT MOUNTAIN / LAKE SKENONTO – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-10 miles). Today we’ll be ascending several small mountains in the southwestern part of Harriman State Park, including Blauvelt Mountain and Parker Cabin Mountain, and also visiting beautiful Lake Skenonto. Some of the trails are extremely rocky, hilly, and occasionally steep, with many longer stretches that are on the easy side.

2/12 (Sat) STOCKBRIDGE MOUNTAIN / SILVERMINE LAKE – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). On this hike we’ll be taking a scenic loop hike in the north-central part of NY’s Harriman Park, which will include several miles of the Appalachian Trail. Highlights include some beautiful views from Stockbridge Mountain as well as a scenic stretch of hiking trail alongside sizable Silvermine Lake.

2/13 (Sun) CRANBERRY MOUNTAIN / BREAKNECK POND – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we’ll be back in the forested mountains of NY’s Harriman State Park -- visiting and lunching at Breakneck Pond, a scenic mountain lake that we’ll reach by hiking a mostly unmarked path, and we’ll be meandering around on the ridges of Cranberry Mountain. Most of the trails are easy and gently hilly except for one large, semi-steep hill at the beginning.

2/19 (Sat) LAKE SKENONTO - Harriman State Park (NY). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we'll be following hiking trails through an attractive section of Harriman Park, with a stop at Lake Skenonto, one of the most beautiful lakes in the area; we'll also have fine views from some small mountains. Portions of the hike are more moderate than easy, with some short, steep stretches of trail.

2/20 (Sun) ANTHONY'S NOSE / SUGARLOAF HILL – Hudson Highlands State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (12-13 miles). This is a longer and more challenging version of the moderate hike we’ve offered for many years to the top of Anthony’s Nose, which is only 900 feet high but offers terrific views overlooking the Hudson River, across from Bear Mountain. In addition to a scenic section of the Appalachian Trail, today’s route will include a loop through the Osborne Preserve and steep Sugarloaf Hill (not to be confused with Sugarloaf Mountain), with elevation changes totaling well over 2,000 feet. For experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a relatively fast pace.

2/26 (Sat) BEAVER POND / WICCOPEE RIDGE - Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). On this hike we'll be visiting the Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area, which protects several thousand acres of wild and lovely forested land that’s now part of Fahnestock State Park. Most of our itinerary will be easy, with some hills and rough spots. Highlights include a view from Wiccopee Ridge, and we'll take a long break at beautiful Beaver Pond.

2/27 (Sun) FINGERBOARD MOUNTAIN / ISLAND POND – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). Today we’ll be returning to the northwestern part of Harriman Park, traversing Fingerboard Mountain and several other small mountains, plus stopping for a lunch break at Island Pond. Elevation changes on this hike are relatively minor, but there are lots of short and occasionally steep ups and downs over rocky trail, and we’ll be climbing up through the rock crevasse known as the Lemon Squeezer.

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March 2011

3/5 (Sat) CANOPUS CREEK / BUSHY RIDGE - Fahnestock State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Join us as we explore some scenic hiking trails in Fahnestock State Park, the largest park in New York east of the Hudson River, and the adjacent Clear Lake Scout Reservation. Terrain is hilly and bumpy, especially on Bushy Ridge, but otherwise easy. One of our stops will be at beautiful Canopus Creek.

3/6 (Sun) JOHN ALLEN POND / FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). Today’ we’ll be returning to Fahnestock State Park, in NY’s Putnam County. The hilly and rocky terrain includes high ridges and ravines, hardwood forests and hemlock groves -- and lovely John Allen Pond, one of several beautiful lakes and ponds. Our hiking route includes many hills but no major elevation changes.

3/12 (Sat) GIANT STAIRS / PALISADES - Palisades Interstate Park (New Jersey/New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-9 miles). This hike takes us along an especially scenic portion of the Palisades on the NY-NJ border, with great views of the Hudson River from the famous and spectacular cliffs, plus a lovely waterfall. Included are two challenging miles of extremely rugged hiking trail over and around giant boulders ("Giant Stairs"), plus a steep 500-foot descent and ascent via trail from the river. The rest is much easier.

3/13 (Sun) BLACK RIVER / HACKLEBARNEY STATE PARK (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Join us as we hike alongside the beautiful tea-colored Black River, which flows through a rugged gorge in northern New Jersey's Hacklebarney State Park. Some of the trail by the river is rough and rocky; the rest of the hiking is hilly but easy.

3/19 (Sat) DEVIL'S DEN PRESERVE (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (6 miles). For today's hike we'll be visiting wild and beautiful Devil's Den Preserve, which is the largest undeveloped area in southwestern Connecticut, and it's laced by 20 miles of scenic hiking trails. Highlights include lake-sized Godfrey Pond and Ambler Gorge, a rocky ravine with a stream. It's easy walking with some hills and occasional rough spots.

3/20 (Sun) WAWAYANDA RIDGES / TERRACE POND - Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). New hike! For many years we’ve offered an easy-moderate hike to Terrace Pond, a lovely mountain lake located on Bearfort Mountain at an elevation of 1,380 feet. Today’s hike follows a longer and mostly different itinerary to the pond. While elevation changes are relatively minor, with many easy stretches of trail, our route includes countless ups and downs as well, and at times there are rough rocks and boulders to negotiate.

3/26 (Sat) PRYDDEN BROOK FALLS / HOOSATONIC RIVER - Paugussett State Forest (Connecticut). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). On this outing we'll be hiking along one of the wildest, most undeveloped stretches of the Housatonic River in southwestern Connecticut, crossing several streams, spending some time at impressive Prydden Brook Falls, and rarely losing sight of the beautiful river. Terrain is hilly and occasionally steep.

3/27 (Sun) STORM KING MOUNTAIN, Storm King State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (6-8 miles). Perched more than 1,300 feet above the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain offers some of the most dramatic views of any location along the Hudson. The hiking trails here include rough, rocky, and steep stretches. Our total ascent and descent will be over 2,500 feet. Expect some terrific vistas. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace (when appropriate).

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April 2011

4/2 (Sat) SHEPAUG RIVER - Steep Rock Reservation (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Steep Rock Reservation is a lovely "unknown" preserve in western Connecticut, and through it runs the wild and scenic Shepaug River. We'll be following an easy (but occasionally rough and rocky) hiking trail alongside the river, with one short, steep climb to a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the area.

4/3 (Sun) HOOK MOUNTAIN – Hook Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles). Today we’ll be doing a loop-hike over rugged Hook Mountain, on the west side of the Hudson River about 25 miles north of NYC. Included are some splendid views overlooking the Hudson. The highest elevation here is only 728 feet, but the mountain features vertical cliffs and rock walls, and the trail, while not precipitous, includes many ups and downs. Our final few miles will be on a much easier path alongside the river.

4/9 (Sat) MOMBASHA HIGH POINT / FITZGERALD FALLS (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). On this hike we'll follow some 9 miles of the Appalachian Trail through the wild and scenic mountains northeast of Greenwood Lake. There are fine views from Mombasha High Point (1,262 ft.) and Cat Rocks, and we'll stop at lovely 25-foot Fitzgerald Falls. Included are ups and downs over rocky trail.

4/10 (Sun) SHELDON FALLS / PETERS KILL CREEK - Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Peters Kill is a spectacular mountain creek with small waterfalls and cascades -- and several larger ones -- running through a rugged Shawangunk mountain gorge. Elevation changes are minor, aside from a couple of steep inclines, but some of the trail is quite rough and rocky, and today's hiking itinerary includes some bushwhacking (off-trail travel).

4/16 (Sat) HOUSATONIC RAPIDS (Connecticut). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6 miles). This is a shorter, easier version of our Ten Mile River/ Housatonic River” hike (offered this year on 5/1), and we hike in from the opposite direction. There’s one rather steep 700-foot trail-climb to a nice mountain vista, and the rest is bumpy but easy. The highlight is a gorgeous stretch of trail alongside the Housatonic River (lots of rapids here), where we’ll take rest breaks by the water, and we’ll also briefly hike alongside the Ten Mile River.

4/17 (Sun) RACE BROOK FALLS / SAGES RAVINE (Massachusetts / Connecticut). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (9 miles). In the unusually beautiful and unspoiled Taconic Mountains (MA/CT border), this hike starts with a very steep but extremely scenic climb up past Race Brook Falls (5 separate high falls), and continues to the top of Mt. Race (2,365 ft.) for some great views. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably fast pace (when appropriate).

4/23 (Sat) STONY BROOK / STONY LAKE – Stokes State Forest (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). On today’s hike in northern New Jersey’s 16,000-acre Stokes State Forest we’ll be following a relatively new trail that encircles scenic Stony Lake, and for a time we’ll also be hiking alongside Stony Brook, which includes some beautiful little waterfalls and cascades. There’s one not-so-steep 300-foot hill, and the rest is on the easy side.

4/24 (Sun) AWOSTING FALLS / PETERS KILL CLIFFS - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (7-8 miles). Today we’ll be hiking in the northeastern part of Minnewaska State Park, visiting two lovely waterfalls and enjoying more of the splendid Shawangunk cliff vistas for which these mountains are famous. Included are stretches of rough, rocky trail with substantial ups and downs.

4/30 (Sat) TEN MILE RIVER / HOUSATONIC RIVER (Connecticut). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). This hike features a splendid stretch of the Appalachian Trail alongside the Housatonic and Ten Mile rivers, where the two scenic rivers meet near the New York border. We’ll have lunch by the Housatonic, which includes some rough rapids, and get there by traversing steep Ten Mile Hill, where we’ll enjoy a couple of nice vistas. Total elevation gain and loss today is at least 1,700 feet.

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May 2011

5/1 (Sun) UPPER HOUSATONIC RIVER (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (6-7 miles). On today's hike we'll be walking alongside western Connecticut's Upper Housatonic River, following the famous Appalachian Trail for several miles as we explore one of the river's wildest and loveliest stretches. The trail is very easy here, with just a few small hills.

5/7 (Sat) CROSS RIVER – Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (New York). EASY HIKE (5 miles). For many years we’ve been visiting 4,700-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Westchester’s largest park, but until a couple of years ago we’d never offered a hike in the northern part of the reservation. Located here is the lovely Cross River -- the size of a large mountain stream -- which we’ll be hiking alongside for a considerable distance, and we’ll explore the forest north of the river as well. It’s easy with occasional hills.

5/8 (Sun) RAYMONDSKILL FALLS / POCONO CLIFFS – Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Pennsylvania). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Last year we premiered this hike, which takes place on a new network of trails. The highlight is PA’s highest waterfall, spectacular and (after rain) massive 165-foot Raymondskill Falls, consisting of 3 cascades not far above the Delaware River. There are high cliffs en route that offer fine vistas. The trails are mostly dirt with few rocks, but many ups and downs are included, a couple of them on the steep side.

5/14 (Sat) ICE CAVES / VERKEERDER KILL FALLS - Sam's Point Preserve & Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). This hike includes a visit to the top of spectacular (180-foot) Verkeerder Kill Falls, where we’ll have an extended lunch break (it’s a shorter version of the 10-mile moderate Verkeerder Kill Falls hike we’ve been offering for years). Prior to the falls we’ll be following a relatively steep, rocky route down into and through the impressive Ice Caves. It’s a mix of easy hiking along with some rough, rocky, and occasionally steep trail.

5/15 (Sun) WILDCAT FALLS / POET’S LEDGE - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8-9 miles). Our itinerary today will take us to beautiful Wildcat Falls, located high in New York’s northeastern Catskills, and then to the rock outcroppings of Poet’s Ledge, where there’s a spectacular mountain vista. Access to both is via an often steep hiking trail (with an elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet). Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

5/21 (Sat) VANCAMPENS GLEN / DELAWARE RIVER - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (6 miles). On today’s hiking trip we'll be following some relatively new trails to do a hilly loop through a scenic part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Highlights: Vancampens Glen, a splendid mountain gorge with a series of waterfalls, and we'll also follow a stretch of trail alongside the Delaware River.

5/22 (Sun) SOUTH MOUNTAIN / KAATERSKILL FALLS – Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10-11 miles). This hike, which we premiered 2 years ago, features a relatively new route to the top of 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls, highest waterfall in New York State. Aside from the splendid waterfall there are several spectacular vistas from the Escarpment Trail. Elevation changes are over 2,000 feet, more than most moderate hikes, but most of the ups and down are gradual.

5/27-30 (Fri-Mon) CATSKILLS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP - Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Join us on our first camping trip of 2011, on Memorial Day Weekend, as we return to the magnificent 700,000-acre Catskill Park in upstate New York -- a splendid place to welcome spring’s arrival. On this 4-day (3-night) trip we'll be walking in with backpacks 2-3 mostly easy hikes (some of it off trail) to camp near the beautiful Neversink River, southwest of Slide Mountain, in the largest wilderness area in the Catskills, and taking (optional) day hikes from there. Some easy hiking is available by the river, and for more experienced and fit hikers, there are also moderate or strenuous hikes available to the summits of nearby mountains for some terrific vistas -- among them Slide Mountain (4,180 ft., highest in the Catskills), which involves an elevation gain of 2,000 feet -- as well as Table Mountain (3,847 ft.) and Peekamoose Mountain (3,843 ft). Another available daytime option is relaxing by the river. Departure will be early Friday am, return by early Monday evening (Memorial Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through February 27, 2011 (minus a $125 cancellation fee). After 2/27/11 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people and early reservations are highly recommended. Since cancellations sometimes occur, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Catskill Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $225, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $325, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

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June 2011

6/4 (Sat) PRIMROSE BROOK / JOCKEY HOLLOW - Morristown National Historical Park (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Jockey Hollow is a lovely and historic forested park with meadows and a number of winding streams, including beautiful Primrose Brook. Our hiking itinerary will take us through some hilly terrain, with many ups and downs, most of which are gradual.

6/5 (Sun) VERKEERDER KILL FALLS / ICE CAVES MOUNTAIN - Sam's Point Preserve & Minnewaska (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). Located next to Minnewaska State Park, the relatively new Sam's Point Preserve protects an area of magnificent Shawangunk cliff scenery. There are wonderful views from elevations as high as 2,255 feet, and we'll be hiking to spectacular Verkeerder Kill Falls. Included is some rough and rocky trail.

6/11 (Sat) SUTHERLAND POND / BLACK ROCK FOREST (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Privately owned Black Rock Forest is a lovely mountain forest located just west of the Hudson River 50+ miles north of NYC. Our hiking route will take us over several little mountaintops, with great views of the Hudson River Valley, and also to beautiful Sutherland Pond for an optional swim. Included are two steep trail-climbs during our first couple of miles.

6/12 (Sun) UPPER PETERSKILL CREEK - Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6-7 miles). Today we'll be hiking alongside a stretch of Peterskill Creek, one of the largest and loveliest mountain streams in NY’s Minnewaska State Park, with cascades and large pools. After a bumpy and possibly muddy stretch of easy trail we'll be ascending to enjoy some spectacular cliff vistas from elevations over 2,000 feet (elevation gain 500+ feet).

6/18 (Sat) RAYMONDSKILL FALLS / HACKERS FALLS – Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Pennsylvania). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). New hike! This is a shorter, easier version of our moderate hike to Raymondskill Falls, which we premiered in 2009 and offered this year on 5/8. We’ll be visiting PA’s highest waterfall, spectacular 165-foot Raymondskill Falls, plus stopping at beautiful Hackers Falls and enjoying some fine cliff vistas. Along with easy stretches of hilly trail we’ll have a couple of steep ascents and descents.

6/19 (Sun) BLACKHEAD MOUNTAIN / BLACK DOME - Catskill Forest Preserve (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8 miles). Today we'll be hiking some ruggedly spectacular trails in the Blackhead Mountain Range of the northeastern Catskills, climbing Black Dome (3,980 ft.) and Blackhead Mountain (3,940 ft.). The initial 1,800-foot ascent is very rocky and steep, and other stretches are also challenging. The rewards include magnificent vistas. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who can maintain a brisk pace.

6/25 (Sat) HIDDEN VALLEY RESERVATION (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Join us today as we visit another of Connecticut's little-known natural areas, Hidden Valley Reservation, which lies only a short distance north of Steep Rock Reservation. Highlights include a lovely stretch of the Shepaug River, a nice vista, and some beautiful dense forest. Most of the hiking here is easy but there are some sizable hills.

6/26 (Sun) NORTH MOUNTAIN / NORTH LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-10 miles). This hike will take us along the southern part of the Escarpment Trail, commonly considered to be the most scenic trail in New York’s Catskills, with many outstanding views. Hiking highlights will include a panorama from North Point and a swim stop at North Lake. A couple of relatively steep but short trail-climbs are included.

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July 2011

7/1-4 (Fri-Mon) CAT MOUNTAIN POND / FIVE PONDS WILDERNESS TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Spend July 4th Weekend (4 days) with us in the magnificent Five Ponds Wilderness, a vast, splendidly scenic, and relatively remote tract which lies south and west of enormous Cranberry Lake, in the northwestern Adirondacks (we visited this area for the first time in many years on last summer’s 6-day trip). We'll be walking in about 5 relatively easy miles with backpacks to (tentatively) camp near beautiful Cat Mountain Pond, and then take (optional) easy to moderate day hikes to explore the area -- which includes a host of lovely lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, waterfalls, and small mountains with great views (including little Cat Mountain, which involves only an elevation gain of a few hundred feet to the top). In the area are many towering old-growth white pine trees. Other options include swimming and spending one or more days relaxing by the pond. Departure will be Friday morning (early morning for those traveling with us from NYC, and late morning for those meeting us in the park) and we’ll be leaving the park by mid-day Monday (July 4th). A $175 deposit will hold a space until 4/1/11, at which time full payment is due. If you need to cancel, cash refunds are available (minus a $75 cancellation fee) through 4/1/11; after that date, credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended -- holiday weekend trips sometimes fill far in advance. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $195). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295).

7/9 (Sat) LAKE AWOSTING / RAINBOW FALLS - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). Lake Awosting is a lovely and well-preserved mountain lake at an elevation of 1,867 ft. in a beautiful area of the Shawangunk Mountains. Before hiking to the lake for a swim break we'll visit Rainbow Falls, following a hilly and occasionally rugged route over rocky cliffs for some great views.

7/10 (Sun) EAST KILL CREEK - Catskill Forest Preserve (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Today we'll be returning to the splendid northeastern Catskills, hiking to a lovely mountain meadow and beautiful East Kill Creek, where we’ll have lunch at a waterfall (which includes a pool suitable for taking a dip). Terrain is very gentle, with few hills, but at times the trail is rocky and may be muddy if it’s rained recently.

7/16 (Sat) ISLAND POND / HARRIMAN BUSHWHACK - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6 miles). Today's hike will take us through a wild and attractive section of Harriman Park, less than 50 miles north of NYC. Included will be a couple of miles of bushwhacking (off-trail travel, which at times involves getting over and around fallen trees and branches). We’ll take a long lunch break at Island Pond, one of the park's most scenic lakes, and in the afternoon we'll also negotiate the rock crevices of the Lemon Squeezer. Some parts are easy, but the terrain is hilly with some short, steep climbs.

7/17(Sun) DIAMOND NOTCH FALLS / WEST KILL MOUNTAIN - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (10 miles). On today's hiking trip, in the northeast Catskills, we'll be ascending a trail to lovely Diamond Notch Falls, which includes several cascades and pools, and then on up to a spectacular vista near the top of West Kill Mountain (3,880 ft.). Our total ascent will be close to 2,500 feet. For experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a brisk pace.

7/23 (Sat) STONY BROOK – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Stony Brook is a large and lovely mountain stream that merges with Pine Meadow Brook in the southwestern part of New York’s Harriman State Park. We’ll be hiking alongside the brook for a couple of miles on a relatively new trail, enjoying the sound of the water during an extended lunch break, and also stopping at nearby Lake Sebago. While most of the hike is easy, some stretches of trail are a bit rough, rocky and hilly.

7/24 (Sun) ACRA POINT / BATAVIA KILL CREEK - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (7-8 miles). On this hike we'll be visiting New York’s wild northeastern Catskills, following a route that includes a stretch of the scenic Escarpment Trail. There's an initial ascent of 1000+ feet, and we'll take breaks at Acra Point (3,100 ft.) and Burnt Knob (3,180 ft.), where there are great vistas. In the afternoon we'll be able to cool off in beautiful Batavia Kill Creek.

7/27-8/3 (Wed-Wed) COLD RIVER WILDERNESS BACKPACKING TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. When's the last time you spent a whole week in a spectacular and remote wilderness area? Plan now to be with us as we re-visit (for the first time in 4 years) one of the most magnificent areas of the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, which is as large as the state of Vermont and has scenery as wild and lovely as anywhere in the East. On this 8-day trip we'll be traversing remote "Cold River Country" on foot with backpacks, hiking 36 (completely roadless) miles of the famous 132-mile Northville-Placid Trail through the north-central Adirondacks, averaging a few miles a day and probably taking at least one rest day (with additional hiking options for more ambitious participants). We'll be walking for 2-3 days alongside the gorgeous Cold River, which features many wild rapids, waterfalls, extraordinary rock formations, and natural swimming pools -- and also passing lovely mountain lakes, ponds, and other streams with waterfalls. Most of the trail is easy but there are substantial hills and rough spots, and probably blowdowns (fallen trees to get around). Unlimited swimming is available. Departure will be on Wednesday morning, 7/27 (early morning for the NYC group, late morning for those meeting us in the park), and we’ll be leaving the woods by mid-day the following Wednesday. A $200 deposit will hold a space until 4/27/11, at which time full payment is due. If you need to cancel, cash refunds are available (minus a $100 cancellation fee) through 4/27/11; after that date, credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Fee includes transportation from NYC for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $695 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $275). Non-members: $795 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $375).

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2010 Overnight Trip Schedule

5/28-31 (Fri-Mon) CATSKILLS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP - Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Join us on our first camping trip of 2010, on Memorial Day Weekend, as we welcome spring's arrival in the magnificent Catskill Mountains of upstate New York. On this 4-day (3-night) trip we'll be walking in with backpacks 2-3 easy hikes (but with an elevation gain of 300-500 feet) to camp near lovely West Kill Creek, probably not far from Diamond Notch Falls (which has a pool suitable for a dip), in the wild and scenic northeastern Catskills. It’s the first time we’ve offered a camping trip in this particular area. From our campsite we’ll be taking optional day hikes each day. Some easy hiking is available by the creek, and there’s also moderate hiking available, and for more ambitious participants, moderate-strenuous hikes to the top of nearby Hunter Mountain (4040 ft.) or West Kill Mountain (3880 ft.), where there are spectacular vistas. Another daytime option is to relax by the stream and waterfall. Departure will be early Friday am, return by early Monday evening (Memorial Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through February 28, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 2/28/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended -- holiday weekend trips often fill far in advance. Since cancellations sometimes occur, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Catskill Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $225, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $325, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

7/2-5 (Fri-Mon) LAKE GEORGE WILD FOREST CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Spend July 4th Weekend (4 days) with us in the splendid wild forest east of 32-mile-long Lake George, where there are over 30 smaller lakes and ponds -- our first visit in many years to this part of New York’s enormous (6-million-acre) and spectacular Adirondack Park. We’ll be hiking several mostly easy but hilly miles to camp at scenic Fishbrook Pond, and taking (optional) day hikes on our second and third days. There are several other ponds in the vicinity to visit, plus small mountains with trails to the tops that offer wonderful vistas. Aside from easy to moderate day hikes, swimming is an option each day, and it’s also possible to take one or more rest days at our campsite by the pond. Departure will be early Friday morning (July 2) and we’ll return by Monday evening (July 5). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through April 2, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 4/2/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended -- in recent years our July 4th Weekend trips have filled far in advance. Since cancellations are possible, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $215, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $315, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

7/29-8/3 (Thursday-Tuesday) CRANBERRY LAKE / FIVE PONDS WILDERNESS TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Plan now to be with us as we visit another remote and splendid area of New York’s 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, which is as large as the state of Vermont and has scenery as wild and lovely as anywhere in the East. In recent years we’ve offered a week-long backpacking trip at this time of year, but many of you have requested a trip that doesn’t require moving our campsite every day -- so on this 6-day wilderness camping trip we’ll be changing campsites (backpacking to a different location) just once or twice. We’ll be exploring the magnificent Five Ponds Wilderness, a vast, splendidly scenic, and relatively remote tract that lies south and west of enormous Cranberry Lake, in the northwestern Adirondacks, our first visit here in a number of years. We'll be hiking in 3-5 relatively easy miles with backpacks to camp near a beautiful mountain lake or pond, then taking (optional) easy to moderate day hikes to explore the area -- which includes a host of lovely lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, waterfalls, and small mountains with great views -- plus some old-growth white pine forest. Other options include spending one or more days relaxing by the lakes. Swimming will be available each day. Departure will be early Thursday morning (July 29), and we’ll return by early evening the following Tuesday (August 3). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through April 29, 2010 (minus a $175 cancellation fee). After 4/29/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls and e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $625 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $250, with gas & toll costs reimbursed on the trip). Non-members: $725 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $350, with gas & toll costs reimbursed on the trip).

9/3-6 (Fri-Mon) SACANDAGA RIVER / SIAMESE PONDS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Join us on Labor Day Weekend as we return to the southern part of the splendid Siamese Ponds Wilderness in New York's enormous Adirondack Park (which is the size of the state of Vermont). This area features the East Branch of the lovely Sacandaga River, 67 lakes and ponds, small mountains, and other magnificent wilderness scenery. We'll be hiking in 4-5 miles on a mostly easy trail to camp near the river, our first visit to this particular area in 3 years. From here, easy to moderate day hikes to the Siamese Ponds and other beautiful lakes are available. You’re also welcome to spend one or more days relaxing by the river. Departure will be early Friday morning and we’ll return Monday evening (Labor Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through June 3, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 6/3/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended -- holiday weekend trips often fill weeks or months in advance. Since cancellations sometimes occur, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $215, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $315, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

10/8-11 (Fri-Mon) PHARAOH LAKE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Join on Columbus Day Weekend as we return to the enormous and spectacular (6-million-acre) Adirondack Park, which has more designated wilderness than any other location in the eastern U.S. We’ll be revisiting the Pharaoh Lake Wilderness, where there are scores of lovely lakes and ponds situated amid prominent rocky-topped mountains. We'll be walking in 5-plus miles with backpacks along mostly easy trails to camp near Pharaoh Lake, the largest and most beautiful body of water in the region, and then taking optional easy to moderate day hikes (among the options are a 7-mile loop around the lake and a 1,400-foot climb of 2,555-foot Pharaoh Mountain, which offers wonderful views). You’re also welcome to spend one or more days relaxing by the lake. This is fall foliage time in the Adirondacks, and the colors are often splendid here on Columbus Day Weekend. It will also be our final camping trip of the season. Departure will be early Friday am and we’ll return Monday evening (Columbus Day). If you need to cancel, refunds are available through July 8, 2010 (minus a $150 cancellation fee). After 7/8/10 credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Since cancellations are possible, you're welcome to check on space up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $450 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $215, with gas & toll costs reimbursed). Non-members: $550 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $315, with gas & toll costs reimbursed).

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