Hiking and Backpacking Adventure in the Catskills & Adirondacks

Trail update: Batavia Kill Trail and Lean-to

October 22, 2018October 22, 2018 Backpacking, Catskills, Hiking Batavia Kill Lean-to, Batavia Kill Trail

It’s been a while since I’ve been up in the Black Dome Valley. I read that the original Batavia Kill lean-to had been decommissioned and the new one constructed. As of this writing, I had

Escarpment Trail Hike from North Lake to North Point and Mary’s Glen Trail

July 16, 2018September 22, 2018 Catskills, Hiking, Venture Out Artist Rock, Ashley Falls, Badman's Cave, Escarpment Trail, Mary Glen Trail, Newman's Ledge, North Mountain, North Point, North-South Lake Campground, Sunset Rock

This is the northern loop of the North-South Lake area which includes the most dramatic section of the Escarpment Trail. I can’t find words worthy to express its beauty. For many hikers, they will stop

Trekking Poles: Considerations in Using Them for Hiking and Backpacking

July 12, 2018July 12, 2018 Gear, Skills & FAQS Hiking poles, Trekking poles, walking poles for backpacking

Trekking poles are a common sight today on trails. They aid in your ability to hike safely. Tents manufacturers have made designs to use them for erecting lightweight shelters and there are many ways you can

Best Hikes: Hunter Mountain via Becker Hollow & Devil’s Path

July 10, 2018May 15, 2018 Catskills, Fire Towers, Hiking, Venture Out Becker Hollow Trail, Catskill Fire Tower Project, Devil's Path, High Peaks, Hunter Mountain, Lean-to, Plateau Mountain

There are many ways up the Catskills second highest summit. Ranging from moderate to difficult makes reaching the fire tower views doable for most people. With a horse trail and handicap ramp for mounting and

Being outdoors: Why it matters to your health.

July 3, 2018July 7, 2018 Family Friendly, Tips Fitness, Health, John Burroughs, John Muir, Mental health, outdoor fitness, Recovery, Stress, Well-being, William Wordsworth

When I was a kid my parents would often tell my brother and me to “go outside and play”. I think this was true for all of my friends. We spent very little time indoors.