Challenging Hikes New York

Fall Palisades Hike

Take the Great Saunter Fall Challenge. [Register here](https://shorewalkers.org/join-a-saunter/) to walk 32 miles over 16 days, starting Oct. 3. Help Shorewalkers support our parks by donating $10 to participate, with all fees going to [Riverside Park Conservancy](https://riversideparknyc.org/) This walk will count for 20 miles of your total. Join us for a 20 mile hike stretching from upper Manhattan to the town of Nyack in Rockland County. We will start by crossing the GWB and then will follow the Long Path trail heading north along the palisades. On our walk we’ll see beautiful wooded paths and stunning views of the Hudson River. This will be a moderately paced hike with minimal breaks, as we’ll need to keep on a tight schedule to finish on time. While the path is mainly flat, you should expect rocky trails, stairs and a few steep hills. Hiking shoes are required and poles are strongly recommended. There are no dropout points where public transportation is easily accessible on this hike so consider your ability to complete 20 miles before signing up. Previous hiking experience is necessary. Meet at 8:00 at the GWB Bus Terminal in the waiting room on the upper level. We will leave promptly at 8:15. Do not come late because we cannot wait. Our hike ends in Nyack where you can take the H07 bus to Tarrytown and catch the Metro North back to the city. There is also the option of taking a Coach bus back to the GWB bus terminal. Please check transportation schedules ahead of time. Bring water, lunch and snacks. We will have a lunch stop at State Line Lookout. Food and beverages are available for purchase there. Contact hike leader Jessica with any questions: 347-603-8447 Co-Hosts: Iris & Fernando

Fall Back for Halloween Hike: Mohonk Preserve to MMH

**Daylight savings time ends today at 2am which means we get an extra hour of play 🤗 plus there’s a Halloween parade tonight in New Paltz at 6pm 🎃** **L**et's get outdoors and take a hike at **[Mohonk Preserve](https://www.mohonkpreserve.org/who-we-are/)** reachable on Trailways bus out of the Port Authority Bus Terminal going to New Paltz. **AGENDA:** We'll start at the Mohonk Preserve Visitors Center then pick up the **[West Trapps Trailhead to Mohonk Mountain House Loop](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/west-trapps-trailhead-to-mohonk-mountain-house-loop)**[,](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/west-trapps-trailhead-to-mohonk-mountain-house-loop) a **9.4-mile** loop trail with roughly **685 to 695 feet** of elevation gain. This is a moderate intensity hike. **GETTING THERE:** We're taking the **Trailway bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal.** The 7AM bus arrives in New Paltz by 8:35AM. One-way ticket is $25.00 (depends on how early you buy the ticket). Ticket can be purchased in advance at this link: **[https://trailways.com/](https://trailways.com/)** From the Trailways bus station in New Paltz, we'll pick up local taxi that will take us to Mohonk Preserve Visitor's Center. **PLEASE NOTE THERE IS A $20.00 HIKER FEE. NO FEE FOR MEMBERS OF MOHONK PRESERVE.** **PACE**: Hiking pace will be **LEISURELY AND NO ONE WILL BE LEFT BEHIND**. During hike 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 FAST HIKERS!** **TOTAL MILEAGE**: up to about 9.5 MILES **DURATION**: We will be out for the entire day. But you can leave on your own at any time. We won't judge. Much. **THE IMPORTANT STUFF:** * Dress in non-cotton layers. * Wear appropriate shoes suitable for hiking * Bring sunscreen, bug spray, head cover, whatever else you need * Bring at least 3 liters of liquid to stay hydrated. * Bring lunch and snacks for yourself. * hiking poles if you need them * Carry your stuff in a backpack. * Sense of adventure and a positive attitude are a must. A smile also goes a long way. Please leave the drama and crankiness at home. **AFTER HIKE,** we'll allot some time to explore New Paltz and grab some local bites and drinks before heading home. **RETURN BUS:** 6PM bus back to NYC by 7:40PM depending on traffic. If you want to take in the Halloween parade that starts at 6pm you can take the 8pm bus back to NYC **WEATHER** As Trailways bus ticket is non-refundable, this hike is RAIN OR SHINE! ***LIABILITY WAIVER: come prepared. Participate at your own risks.*** ***Hold no one liable etc etc.***

UPDATE! Hike at Harriman State Park - see below

MEETING PLACE SATURDAY MORNING Target Parking Lot - be there by 7:45am 98 Vets Hwy, Commack 11725 This will be our first hike off of Long Island (lower Hudson Valley to be exact). The name of the hike is Diamond Mountain And Pine Meadow Lake Loop located in Harriman State Park. Reeves Meadow Visitors Center at 100 Seven Lakes Dr, Sloatsburg, NY 41°10'26.0"N 74°10'06.3"W If you are available on October 17th and are seriously interested in joining the group for this moderately challenging 8-9 mile hike, please contact me directly before entering your RSVP. Greg 631-275-0512 I am limiting attendance to 12 members. I will consider more than 12 participants if we have additional people who want to drive their vehicles. If you are a passenger you are required to chip in $10 to cover the driver's gas and tolls. The trail entrance is 74 miles from my home in East Northport. The plan is to carpool in 3 vehicles beginning at 8am so we can arrive at the trail no later than 10am. After the hike, we will eat lunch at a local restaurant and then head back to Long Island between 4 and 6pm. I look forward to hearing from any interested parties. Greg 631-275-0512

Saturday Oct 17th 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.

Hike the Undercliff Trail & Upper Breakneck [Public Transit-7 miles]

Hi Hikers, Come join me for a great loop out of Cold Spring on the Undercliff Trail and over the top of Breakneck Ridge for sweeping views of the Hudson and fall foliage. There should be time to visit the Cornish Ruin or Stony Point as well. Contact [Andre](https://www.meetup.com/members/230822/) with any questions about this event. Please take the [group's 2026 member survey](https://tally.so/r/2EeqKb). (Especially if you didn't hike with us last year.) \*\*\* **What to Expect on a Hike:** * **We plan to stay together as a group, but this is a social event for hikers and not a guided hike.** Everyone needs to be a self-sufficient hiker with adequate skills, equipment, and contingency plans. * **If you are not comfortable hiking** **self-sufficiently** **or are not experienced enough to judge the skill and physical requirements in the route description**, check out the [Appalachian Mountain Club’s](https://www.outdoors.org/) hikes or one of the many professional guides operating in the area. \*\*\* **Typical day-hiking gear list:** * Hiking footwear (boots or trail shoes), non-cotton clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, sunhat, sunglasses. ([Permethrin insecticide](https://amzn.to/3XNcflS) treatment against ticks is great.) * Rain gear and an extra warm layer, including winter hat and gloves in colder weather. * Lunch and snacks. 2 liters/ 2 quarts of water minimum, 3 liters for a hot day. Electrolytes on hot days. * **GPS app with offline maps:** Avenza Maps App. **[Mapy App](http://mapy.com/)** has basic offline trail maps that are adequate. CalTopo ($20/yr) is an excellent GPS program. AllTrails and GaiaGPS are great but pricey. * Or compass & paper map: [East Hudson Trails Map](https://store.nynjtc.org/products/east-hudson-trails-map) \*\*\* **General FAQs:** * Regular members in good standing can always skip the waitlist. * No dogs allowed. * No guests beyond the RSVP guest limit, and no one under 18 is allowed. * Hikes are generally rescheduled for thunderstorms, heat index >90°F, or AQI >80. \*\*\* **Route Info & Skill Level** * **The Stats:** About 7 miles, depending on conditions, with 1.8k' elevation gain at a moving pace of 2 mph. * [GaiaGPS Track](https://www.gaiagps.com/map/?loc=13.6/-73.9652/41.4383&pubLink=CK4uvpaCYZPu97Ia7VYHF00l&routeId=a5e0edfd-e1e0-4cdd-bd49-47512e77ce3b) \- link works best on a desktop\. * Navigation and Route Finding: Blazed trails * Terrain Type: Hiking trails that may be rough and steep (Class 2) * **For Your Contingency Planning:** Shorter routes and bailout points are available. Cell service is generally available but can be spotty. \*\*\* **Logistics:** * **Meeting Location:** Meet end of Main Street in Cold Spring ([Google Maps](https://maps.app.goo.gl/kfU449QB65jzRCEf9)) at 10:20 AM. (Outside the Cold Spring Chamber of Commerce booth.) We'll walk about 20 mins to the trailhead. * **Drivers:** Park at the Cold Spring train station. There is unlikely to be enough parking at the trailhead. * **Public Transit**: Take the 8:56 AM train from Grand Central, arriving at 10:16 AM. I suggest using the bathroom on the train since the bathrooms in Cold Spring may have a long line. * **Car Pooling:** Please use the comment section to organize carpooling, especially if you are driving from the city. Passengers should chip in for gas and tolls (usually about $15). \*\*\*

Autum/Halloween Hike & Lunch🍁🍂😨

Eastern Devil's Path, with transportation

**PLEASE NOTE: THIS IS A PRE-PAY ONLY EVENT** Please read carefully: This event is being hosted by Adventure Untamed (https://www.adventureuntamed.com/trip/eastern-devils-path-3/). **Please register directly through the website**. **You spot will only be held once you register and pay through the Adventure Untamed website.** **Transportation and licensed guides are included in the cost of the trip. All you have to do is show up!** **You must have Catskill 3500 (or equivalent) peak experience before attempting this trip. Please email info@adventureuntamed.com with any questions.** Looking for a challenge? Hike the eastern half of the infamous Devil’s Path! Known as one of the most challenging hiking trails in the Northeast, the Devil’s Path has steep, rugged ascents and equally difficult descents, slowing down the pace of even the most experienced hikers. Conquering the eastern half will require you to scramble up rocky trails and navigate boulders and gravel on the descents. But we’ll be there to set you up for success! You will have access to a resupply and bail out point (after approximately 8 miles and three peaks), and our guides will be on trail to help throughout the day. And if you are feeling up for a really intense day, join us to hike the full Devil’s Path – we do it every summer! This is an **at-your-own-pace** hike. Guides will be sweeping and at timed cutoff checkpoints to ensure everyone’s safety! On this trip we will summit Indian Head, Twin, Sugarloaf and Plateau mountains. These are required peaks for [Catskill 3500 Club Membership](https://www.adventureuntamed.com/3500-club/). **What’s included**: * NY State Licensed and Wilderness First Responder Certified Guides * Transportation to and from NYC * Resupply, and bail-out point, and trail support as you attempt one of the most challenging hikes in the Northeast [Cancellation Policies](https://www.adventureuntamed.com/info/?tab=2) **Wear** * Hiking boots (**required**) * Weather-appropriate, moisture wicking, althletic clothing (**no cotton**) * Wool or synthetic socks (**no cotton**) * Hat * Sunglasses **Pack** * Lunch * Ample Snacks * At least three (3) liters of water * Backpack * Sunscreen * Bug spray * Fully waterproof top and bottom layers that can be worn over all other layers * Extra layers to adjust for changing weather condtions * Extra pair of wool socks * Headlamp * Trekking poles (optional) * A change of clothes for the ride back (optional) **Level:** INTENSE (https://www.adventureuntamed.com/info/?tab=1) **Mileage:** \~12 miles **Elevation Gain:** \~4,600 feet **Group Size:** 2 - 13 adventurers

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-10-25-26/)** **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/)**

Wednesday 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-10-21-26/)** **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/)**

Thursday 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-10-22-26/)** **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/)**

Sunday Hike: Sky Top [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/sky-top-10-18-26/)** **EXPLORE MORE ADVENTURES HERE ►** **[Upcoming Events](https://outyork.com/new-york-hiking-tours/)** **Sky Top** **Experience one of New York’s most rewarding hikes with a steady uphill climb leading to breathtaking summit views over the Shawangunk Ridge.** Enjoy the same iconic scenery as the Lemon Squeeze—without the narrow passages—while spotting soaring eagles and unique rock formations along the way. After the summit, descend along the peaceful shores of Lake Mohonk, where forested paths and tranquil waters create the perfect finish. This hike blends adventure, stunning views, and relaxation into an unforgettable outdoor escape. 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: [FootPath Map](https://footpathapp.com/routes/3175d4c9-0b48-4e50-934b-29030a6a2931) * Difficulty: Moderate - Challenging. The perceived difficulty may increase if you are a beginner hiker or not physically active. * Elevation Gain: 1,158 ft. (353 mt) * Highest Elevation: 1,542 ft. (470 mt) * Lowest Elevation: 452 ft. (138 mt) * Hiking Distance: 5.59 mi. (9 km) * Hiking Time: 3h 30m. 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/)**

Advanced Hike Wittenberg & Cornell

**MUST REGISTER HERE TO ATTEND [https://joinoutsiders.com/events](https://joinoutsiders.com/events)** This one is for the seasoned hikers. Join us for a challenging, high-reward trek up two of the Catskills' most iconic peaks, Wittenberg and Cornell, deep in the Slide Mountain Wilderness. It's a demanding day on the trail, and the payoff is one of the most jaw-dropping views in the Northeast: the sweeping panorama of the Ashokan Reservoir and the surrounding high peaks from Wittenberg's summit ledges, framed by peak fall color. We'll climb the classic Burroughs Range route from Woodland Valley, gaining serious elevation through hardwood forest and stands of spruce and fir before topping out on Wittenberg, then pushing on to the rocky summit of Cornell (including the famous "Cornell Crack" scramble). This is a strenuous, full-commitment hike with steep, rugged terrain, so come prepared and ready to earn the view. **EVENT TIMELINE** * 9:00 AM: Meet at The Standard Biergarten (Meatpacking) * 9:30 AM: Depart NYC * 11:30 AM: Arrive at Woodland Valley trailhead and begin hike * 2:00 PM: Summit Wittenberg, lunch and photo break at the overlook * 3:00 PM: Push on to the summit of Cornell * 3:45 PM: Begin descent * 6:00 PM: Complete hike and regroup * 6:30 PM: Head to a local eatery for food and drinks * 8:00 PM: Depart back to NYC * 10:30 PM (approx.): Arrive back in the city All timing is approximate and subject to change based on group pace and conditions. ## **WHAT'S INCLUDED IN YOUR TICKET** * Roundtrip transportation from NYC * Guided hike led by OUTSIDERS hiking guides * Parking and trail access fees * Complimentary water and beverages on the ride home ## **HIKE DETAILS** * Trail: Wittenberg and Cornell via the Burroughs Range (from Woodland Valley) * Location: Catskill Park, Slide Mountain Wilderness * Mileage: approx. 9.4 miles (out and back) * Elevation Gain: approx. 2,900 ft * Difficulty: Strenuous / Advanced (steep, rugged terrain with rock scrambles) (Trail details to be finalized) ## **WHAT TO BRING** * Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots (a must for this terrain) * Layers and weather-appropriate clothing for higher elevations * At least 2 to 3 liters of water * A packed trail lunch and high-energy snacks * Hat, gloves, and a warm layer (summits run cold and windy in late October) * Trekking poles (recommended) ## **IMPORTANT NOTES** * This is an advanced hike intended for experienced hikers in good physical condition. Prior experience with long, strenuous climbs and scrambling is strongly recommended. * Our adventures are full-day experiences. We do not recommend scheduling other activities that day, as return times can vary. * Unsafe or unsuitable attire and footwear may result in denied participation for safety reasons. Proper hiking boots are required. * If you have any medical conditions or injuries that might prevent you from safely completing a strenuous hike, please consult your physician before signing up. * A signed waiver is required to join the trip. Come ready to challenge yourself, chase the views, and stand on top of the Catskills at the height of fall.