The Moderate Hikes

Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)
Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.

Diamond Notch Falls via Diamond Notch Road
This excellent alternate route to Diamond Notch Falls is moderately challenging with a great scenic view.

Lions Head Hiking Trail
Lions Head Trail is a delightful Taconic hike that you can fit into any day, with great views.

Sunset Rock Trail (Taconics)
A short rugged, riparian hike to Sunset Rock, a stunning Taconic scenic spot.

Best Hikes of 2022
These are the best hikes I did in 2022 — 17 amazing day-hikes sorted by level of difficulty.


Inspiration Point (Catskills)
Inspiration Point in Kaaterskill Clove is one of the top scenic destinations in The Catskills.

Anthony’s Nose from Camp Smith II
This route to the wonderful scenic lookout on Anthony’s Nose is gentler than the classic route from the north.

Acra Point & Batavia Kill Loop with Burnt Knob Lookout
Acra Point & Burnt Knob is one of the most beautiful hikes in The Catskills. Gorgeous trails for miles, plus two amazing lookouts.

Dibbles Quarry & Beyond (Ultimate Guide)
A short, easy hike to the very memorable Dibbles Quarry in one of The Catskills’ loveliest notches.

Baxter Mountain Trail
Baxter Mountain Trail in the Adirondacks is on of the sweetest trails in Keene Valley. Baxter is also one of the most hike-able and scenic peaks in the area.

Rooster Comb
The trail to Rooster Comb in the Adirondacks is relentlessly uphill but also quite short. Enjoy 3 fantastic lookouts, each more stunning that the last.


18 Amazing Western Catskills Hikes
Some of the best day hikes are only a few hours from New York City. The Western Catskills have it all!

Red Hill Fire Tower from Denning
This new route to Red Hill Fire Tower is a little longer and tougher than the classic route, but so much sweeter.

Poets Ledge
This route to Poets Ledge on Kaaterskill High peak is very steep but very rewarding.