Challenging Hikes New York

Fall Foliage Hike: Cranberry Lake Preserve

**c**ome join us for a leisurely forest bathing hike at Cranberry Lake Preserve, reachable on Metro-North to VALHALLA NO! We are not taking a bath in the forest **WHAT IS FOREST BATHING?** Simply, forest bathing is the Japanese practice of spending time and walking in a relaxed way in a living forest — to "bathe" in its peace and beauty -- and research has found the practice of forest bathing to reduce blood pressure, ease stress, improve mood and sleep, and increase focus and simply recharge the body's batteries. You can read more about it here: **[http://www.westchestermagazine.com/Westchester-Magazine/May-2017/What-Is-Forest-Bathing/](http://www.westchestermagazine.com/Westchester-Magazine/May-2017/What-Is-Forest-Bathing/)** **HIKE HIGHLIGHTS**: Remnants of quarry operations, old stone walls, a small cascade, and **scenic 20,000 year old glacial lake, Cranberry Lake**, are features on this hike at Cranberry Lake Preserve. **GETTING THERE:** We'll meet at Grand Central to take the 9:14AM Metro-North to VALHALLA station. **AGENDA**: Once we get to Valhalla, we'll pick up Uber for a 6-min ride (2 miles) to Cranberry Lake Preserve. It's also possible to walk from Kensico Dam Plaza to Cranberry Lake Preserve (about 20-30 min walk over a busy Mt. Kisco Road). **TRAIL MAP**: [https://parks.westchestercountyny.gov/images/stories/pdfs/2026cranberrylakepreservetrailmap.pdf](https://parks.westchestercountyny.gov/images/stories/pdfs/2026cranberrylakepreservetrailmap.pdf) After hike we'll make our way back to Valhalla. We'll then explore **[Kensico Dam Plaza](https://parks.westchestergov.com/kensico-dam-plaza)** and "The Rising" sculpture, a memorial to those Westchester residents who perished on September 11. **HIKE INTENSITY**: Easy breezy to moderate. There are some minor uphill and downhill but nothing strenuous **TOTAL MILEAGE**: up to about 6-7 MILES, maybe more...who the heck can tell? **PACE**: Hiking pace will be **LEISURELY AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND.** Throughout day, we'll have lunch, water and snack breaks as needed; as well as taking time to savor the sights and sounds of nature, take photos, hug some trees, and most importantly, socialize with your fellow hikers. **NO SPEED DEMONS!!!!** T**HE IMPORTANT STUFF:** * Dress in non-cotton layers. * Wear appropriate shoes suitable for hiking - * Bring at least 3 liters of liquid to stay hydrated. * Bring lunch and snacks for yourself. * Bring a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. A smile also goes a long way. Please leave the drama and crankiness at home. **DURATION**: I cannot guarantee finishing time. We will finish when we finish **WEATHER**: Rain or extreme heat and humidity will cancel. **MEETUP FEE:** a $2.00 meetup fee will be collected to help defray the cost of keeping this group going **LIABILITY WAIVER: come prepared. Participate at your own risks. Hold no one liable etc. etc.**

Sunday Sept 20th Forest Park Hike.

\*\*\* CHECK HERE BEFORE GOING \*\*\* Rainy weather may cancel hike.\*\*\* Meet time is 10:30AM, hike start is 10:45AM. Duration is about 2 hours + or - a few minutes. We will hike along several of the many trails in the woods. Wear heavy shoes or boots as the trails are rocky and have many tree roots. Distance is a about 4 miles plus or minus a bit. Hile will be led by Werner and Jerry Attendance is at your own risk, and by joining, you agree to hold us not responsible for any accidents, injuries, losses or unforeseen problems that may arise. This includes contamination by any germs, viruses, or any other illnesses. If the grouping, numbers of attendees and distances get too close, we will break into two separate groups. This should satisfy any limitations on numbers of hikers and distancing. The hike is free ,but we would like to ask for a voluntary donation of whatever you want, or one $ 1 or $2 to help cover the fee Meetup charges us to use their website.

Backpacking Trip - Challenging

In order to officially secure your spot on this event and to receive the details email of where to exactly park and meet with us you must register on our site by clicking the link below. https://www.trailboundproject.com/service-page/backpacking-trip-challenging?referral=service_list_widget Our events typically fill up at 16 people for guided backpacking trips! You won't see the attendees here on meetup as registrations are on our site but we wanted to let you know that we typically see large outings for all of our events! Our most advanced instructional trip in the backpacking series adds hiking into the backcountry at night, more challenging terrain and scrambles, and an overall more ambitious itinerary over the weekend. Students will participate in the trip planning so they can expect to complete the trip as capable solo or group trip leaders. This is a challenging 2-night backpacking trip with a roundtrip total of 10 miles including 3,700' of elevation change up and 2,700' of elevation change down. The scrambles leave smiles on everyone's faces and give us the opportunity to teach how to use rope to pull up our packs after scrambles and even create guidelines for additional safety and comfort (these are scrambles though, we're not rock climbing). We'll continue to teach footwork and scrambling tactics, setting up camp at night, and any other topics that come up. We'll be at your side every step of the way. We’ll start off in the evening to hike in and find a suitable area to set up camp off-trail at night, simulating a typical after-work start to a backpacking trek. The next day we'll scramble up to the Burroughs Range ridgeline where we'll encounter the absolute best view in the Catskills atop Wittenberg Mountain, one of the Catskill 3500 peaks. We'll continue to scramble up the infamous Cornell Crack to summit Cornell Mountain for our second Catskill 3500 peak. To end the day we'll drop down into the saddle to set up camp and enjoy the evening and campfire. Our third day finds us scrambling up and over Slide Mountain, our third Catskill 3500 peak and the tallest in the Catskills. Students will leave self-reliant and capable of using their skills and experiences to not only be confident independent backpackers, but to mentor others looking to experience the outdoors. Minimum Gear: 50-70 liter backpack, shelter (tent, tarp shelter, bivy, or hammock), sleeping bag, sleeping pad, small pillow, lighter, water bottles or bladder for 4-5 liters of water, water filter, small knife, 75’ paracord, cell phone with USB charger & cable, headlamp & extra batteries, canister stove & fuel, cooking pot, utensils, food & snacks, bear hang food bag, first aid kit, personal toiletries, clothing for the weather, & hiking boots. A detailed packing list will be emailed to students after registration and you can contact us with any questions. Minimum Age: 12 years old - the minor(s) and a parent/guardian must all be paid registered participants.

Sunday Hike: Bull Hill

**To attend this event, simply RSVPing on Meetup isn’t enough — you must book through our website to secure your spot.** **TO ATTEND YOU MUST BOOK ► [HERE](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/bull-hill-09-20-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Bull Hill** **Take on the challenge of this challenging hiking trail in New York’s Hudson Valley**, known for its steep ascents and rugged, rocky terrain. While demanding, the journey is well worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes. Perfect for experienced hikers seeking a physical challenge paired with breathtaking scenery, this trail is a must for your next outdoor adventure. We will have a snack break on the trail. **We’ll wrap up our adventure at a cozy local pizzeria**, where we can relax, enjoy some food and drinks, and spend time chatting and connecting with fellow adventurers. *We’re getting away from the city to forget about timing, enjoy nature, and connect with others. If you’re looking to make new outdoorsy friends, you’ve found the perfect place. If you’re seeking a fast-paced group, this might not be the right fit.* 🗺️ About the Hike * Small Group Experience: 2 - 15 OutYorkers. * Hiking Route: [AllTrails Map](https://www.alltrails.com/es/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-bull-hill-short-loop-ffac735) * Difficulty: Challenging. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * Elevation Gain: 1,138 ft (347 mt) * Highest Elevation: 1,099 ft (335 mt) * Lowest Elevation: 16 ft (5 mt) * Distance: 4.60 mi (7.5 km) – This doesn't include the 1 mile (1.6 km) walk from the train station to the trailhead. * Hiking Time: 4h. This could change according to the group pace. ✅ **Included:** **Hike led by a New York State licensed wilderness guide.** ❌ **Not Included:** Train ticket or any other services or products not mentioned. **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)**

Adirondack Fall Foliage - Car Camping [Spots Available]

**Fall in the Adirondacks is always spectacular!** Come join us for a weekend of camping and hiking in the southern Adirondacks, which has better foliage and far fewer crowds than the High Peaks. A couple of important notes: 1. **Weekend trips are open to regularly attending members in good standing only. Message Andre if you're interested.** 2. Hikes are member-organized. Everyone is expected to be able to read a map, follow a trail, and choose hikes within their fitness and ability. Depending on the attendees, we might split into two or more hikes. Do not count on someone more experienced or skilled than yourself to lead you. Hikes in the area are typically 5 miles and up, suitable for intermediate and advanced hikers. I've found that doing a couple of short hikes in different areas maximizes the foliage viewing. (See [Andre's AllTrails list of nearby hikes](https://www.alltrails.com/lists/southern-adks-day-hikes-fb508ef?u=i&sh=q9msug).) There are several great lookout towers in the area that provide 360-degree views, and the high peaks are always an option if you want something longer. **Logistics:** * **Camping Location:** Car-camping near Long Lake / Newcome NY ara, with showers, toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, and canoe rentals. Max two tents and two cars per campsite. * **Food:** BYO food and snacks. There is very little nearby in terms of stores, so bring all your food for the weekend. Mountain House dehydrated meals are a fine option. * **Cost:** $25 per person for two nights of camping, paid to Andre * **General Rules**: We are a low alcohol group. No RVs, generators, camper vans, etc. No dogs allowed. **Schedule:** * **Friday:** Leave as early in the afternoon as you can. It is 5-6 hours to the campground from NYC. Please try to arrive by 10 pm out of courtesy to other campers. * **Saturday:** We'll rise early for our various hikes, BYO dinner at the campsite around a campfire. * **Sunday:** Generally a short hike before hitting the road in the afternoon. \*\*\* **Camping Gear:** * Tent, or space in someone's tent * Sleeping pad and sleeping bag suitable for the low 30s at night * Stove, pots, and pan (check about sharing) * Personal plate/spoon/cup, etc; toiletries, towel, and flip-flops for the shower; swimsuit (for the brave). **Hiking Gear:** * Standard day hiking gear: Waterproof boots suggested (trail shoes are not recommended in the ADKs), non-cotton clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, sunhat, sunglasses, rain gear, hiking poles, snacks, etc. * Winter hat, gloves, and jacket, plus insulating layers to account for unpredictable fall mountain weather. If you plan on hiking one of the high peaks, bring microspikes and full winter clothing since early October is usually the first real snow of the season. * Maps of the region: [National Geographic Adirondack High Peaks](http://amzn.to/1JUrKk2) & [National Geographic Northville, Raquette Lake](https://amzn.to/3LcmGud) * **GPS app with offline maps** **Weather:** Average hi/low: 70s/40s, might be in the 30s. The weather above the tree line is always worse. Mountain weather is often unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

Anthony's Nose Hike!

Let's meet up to hike Anthony's Nose! We will be taking the 6:56AM train from grand central that gets into Manitou at 8:10 AM. We will meet at the Manitou train station and depart from the station at 8:15AM. I will post my cell number in the comments the day before. The hike itself is ~2.5 mile round trip. The walk from the Manitou train station to the Anthony's nose trail head is about 1.7 miles, making the total out and back (ending back at manitou station) ~6 miles. I will keep my eye on the weather to make sure no rain in the forecast. Bring hiking boots, water, and snacks. 🙂 🥾🍁

Hump Day Hike @ Mills Reservation

Sunday Hike: Breakneck Ridge

**To attend this event, simply RSVPing on Meetup isn’t enough — you must book through our website to secure your spot.** **TO ATTEND YOU MUST BOOK ► [HERE](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/breakneck-ridge-10-03-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Breakneck Ridge** **Discover Breakneck Ridge, one of the most iconic hikes in New York, located in the stunning Hudson Valley just outside NYC.** This moderate and adventurous trail rewards hikers with scenic paths and unforgettable views of the Hudson River and surrounding mountains. Ideal for travelers eager to explore nature beyond New York City, the hike starts and ends in Cold Spring, a charming town. **We’ll wrap up our adventure at a cozy local pizzeria**, where we can relax, enjoy some food and drinks, and spend time chatting and connecting with fellow adventurers. *We’re getting away from the city to forget about timing, enjoy nature, and connect with others. If you’re looking to make new outdoorsy friends, you’ve found the perfect place. If you’re seeking a fast-paced group, this might not be the right fit.* 🗺️ About the Hike * **Small Group Experience:** 2 - 15 OutYorkers. * **Hiking Route:** [AllTrails App](https://www.alltrails.com/es/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-at-breakneck-ridge-ac4d175) * **Difficulty:** Moderate. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * **Elevation Gain:** 1,073 ft (327 mt) * **Highest Elevation:** 987 ft (301 mt) * **Lowest Elevation:** 20 ft (6 mts) * **Hiking Distance:** 5 mi (8 km) – We'll walk an extra mile (1.60 Km) from the train station to the trailhead. * **Hiking Time:** 4h 30m. This could change according to the group pace and includes a leisurely stroll around Cold Spring’s waterfront and charming streets. ✅ **Included:** **Hike led by a New York State licensed wilderness guide.** ❌ **Not Included:** Train ticket or any other services or products not mentioned. **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)**

Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking

Hit your bucket list with all the feels on this women’s guided hiking and backpacking weekend! During your Yosemite Half Dome Hike adventure, tour Yosemite National Park as you climb the famous cables of Half Dome with ladies who do their own stunts. Live out every last one of those John Muir nature quotes in the backcountry of Yosemite National Park. Mountains calling? Check. Between two pines? Check. Walk with nature? Double-check. **GUIDED BACKPACKING IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK BACKCOUNTRY** Romp through the backcountry on a demanding, yet epic backpacking trip. Meet your new woman crushes in the Yosemite Valley as the landscape gives way to mountains, waterfalls, and a piney perfume that’ll make Yankee Candle totally jelly. Mother Nature swiped ALL THE WAY right. Leave the phone on airplane mode to immerse yourself in stunning national park backcountry over the course of four epic days. Climb steep, challenging trails to look down upon the Valley with a panoramic view that includes Mt. Starr King, Half Dome, Nevada Falls, Illilouette Falls, and plenty of ant-sized tourists with tiny selfie sticks. **HALF DOME: HIKING TO THE TOP** Fuel up for the real MVP—the famous cables of Half Dome! Blast that hiker booty (and bring plenty of water) while ascending 500 feet up a .5 mile of steps carved into the rock. Then, the real fun begins. It’s a 400-foot gain up the top of Half Dome with some points at 70%+ grades. Pace your footwork on wooden slabs spaced out on the climb as you get the upper body workout of a lifetime. Worth it? HELL YES! **BACKPACKING EQUIPMENT PROVIDED** Don’t have backpacking equipment, but can Beastmaster the stairs? Perfect. Explorer Chick has you covered with: * a backpack * sleeping bag * sleeping pad * shared tent All you need to do is show up for this Yosemite Half Dome Hike to backpack like a boss and get that National Parks bucket list checked. **See the website for full itinerary, details and to book.** [https://explorerchick.com/adventures/yosemite-half-dome-hike-backpacking](https://explorerchick.com/adventures/yosemite-half-dome-hike-backpacking/) **Say Hello 👋** **💻** Website: [https://explorerchick.com/](https://explorerchick.com/) 📧 Email: hello@explorerchick.com 📸 Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/explorerchickadventureco/](https://www.instagram.com/explorerchickadventureco/) ❤️ Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/ExplorerChickAdventureCo/](https://www.facebook.com/ExplorerChickAdventureCo/) 👯‍♀️ Facebook Group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/weareexplorerchick](https://www.facebook.com/groups/weareexplorerchick) 🎥 TikTok: [https://www.tiktok.com/@explorerchick](https://www.tiktok.com/@explorerchick)

Friday Hike: Sugarloaf Hill

**To attend this event, simply RSVPing on Meetup isn’t enough — you must book through our website to secure your spot.** **TO ATTEND YOU MUST BOOK ► [HERE](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/sugarloaf-hill-09-25-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Sugarloaf Hill** **Join us to this moderate to challenging hike at Sugarloaf Hill.** Wander lush forest trails and enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature as you climb to a stunning summit. From the top, **take in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and vibrant seasonal scenery.** Ideal for hikers seeking a challenging adventure with spectacular vistas in New York’s great outdoors. Pack your favorite sandwich and drink, we will have a snack break on the trail. *We’re getting away from the city to forget about timing, enjoy nature, and connect with others. If you’re looking to make new outdoorsy friends, you’ve found the perfect place. If you’re seeking a fast-paced group, this might not be the right fit.* 🗺️ About the Hike * Small Group Experience: 2 - 15 OutYorkers. * Hiking Route: [AllTrails Map](https://www.alltrails.com/es/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-at-sugarloaf-hill-trail-4fd5aad?u=i&sh=ypq48e) * Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * Elevation Gain: 892 ft (272 mt) * Highest Elevation: 758 ft (231 mt) * Lowest Elevation: 16 ft (5 mt) * Hiking Distance: 6.20 mi (10 km) * Hiking Time: 3h 30m. This could change according to the group pace. ✅ **Included:** **Hike led by a New York State licensed wilderness guide.** ❌ **Not Included:** Train ticket or any other services or products not mentioned. **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)**

NarPhu Trek - 11 days

Sunday Hike: Kaaterskill Falls [Transportation Included]

**To attend this event, simply RSVPing on Meetup isn’t enough — you must book through our website to secure your spot.** **TO ATTEND YOU MUST BOOK ► [HERE](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/kaaterskill-falls-10-04-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Kaaterskill Falls** **Join us for an unforgettable hike to Kaaterskill Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New York!** This moderate trail leads to a stunning two-tier cascade dropping 260 feet, with scenic viewpoints and a dramatic natural setting along the way. We’ll climb stone steps, visit a viewing platform, and explore both the upper and lower falls while enjoying fresh air and great company. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced hiker, this adventure offers breathtaking views and a perfect way to connect with nature. Let’s explore together! Pack your favorite sandwich and drink, we will have a snack break on the trail. *We’re getting away from the city to forget about timing, enjoy nature, and connect with others. If you’re looking to make new outdoorsy friends, you’ve found the perfect place. If you’re seeking a fast-paced group, this might not be the right fit.* 🗺️ About the Hike * Small Group Experience: 2 - 20 OutYorkers. * Hiking Route: [AllTrails Map](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/recording/afternoon-hike-642eaa3-622?sh=victor-gavidia&utm_campaign=memory&unfurl=false&showMemory=true) * Difficulty: Easy - Moderate. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * Elevation Gain: 735 (115 mt) * Highest Elevation: 2,142 ft (653 mt) * Lowest Elevation: 1,756 ft (536 mt) * Hiking Distance: 6.34 mi (10.20 km) * Hiking Time: 4h. This could change according to the group pace. ✅ **Included:** **According to Selected Package.** ❌ **Not Included:** Anything not mentioned in the selected package. **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)**