reservoir view through opening in trees

Secrets of Samuels Point

A short but challenging bushwhack to the strange and beautiful summit of Samuels Point.

Read ›

the blacks

Where are the Catskill Mountains?

The Catskill Mountains are located in New York State, south of Albany and west of the Hudson River.

Read ›

catskills fall foliage 2022

Catskills & Adirondacks Fall Foliage Reports 2022

The best Catskills Fall Foliage Report because it’s direct from the Catskills!

Read ›

large glacial boulders and trail signage in forest pointing to Rooster Comb

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.

Read ›

Herd path

Should We Stop Bushwhacking the Catskills?

I asked, “How can hikers best use the mountains right now, in terms of bushwhacking? Should we cool it for a while?”

Read ›

Master Map of Trail Guides

This master geo-map lists my trail guides visually.

Read ›

Santanoni Peak in the distance

Top 6 Hiking Dangers

With some basic knowledge and gear, mountain hiking is rarely dangerous. However, without adequate prep, things can turn ugly quickly. 

Read ›

frozen trees on the summit of Wittenberg / winter hiking essentials

Winter Hiking Essentials

Winter hiking essentials — crucial gear and intel to hike safely this winter.

Read ›

catskills fall foliage 2022

AllTrails App Safety Issues

Look, the AllTrails app is fine. I use AllTrails. My friends use AllTrails. We all use AllTrails. BUT…

Read ›

Giant Mountain seen at a distance

Giant Mountain

Giant Mountain is one of the most popular peaks in the Adirondacks. This route offers a super fun climb and a super scenic descent.

Read ›

Adirondacks fall foliage valley scene Jay Mountain

6 Incredible Fall Foliage Hikes in the Adirondacks

When that Adirondack fall foliage hits, you don’t want to miss it. Here’s a selection of incredible hikes to view the ADK extravaganza.

Read ›

Hiking trail, Wittenberg, Catskills

When Does Hiking Season End?

Learn how to extend your hiking into the most spectacular season of all!

Read ›

kuhl hiking pants

KÜHL Transcendr Pants Review

KÜHL kindly sent me two pairs of winter hiking pants to review. They‘re so good.

Read ›

Lower Wolf Jaw from Route 73

Lower Wolfjaw via Rooster Comb

The long hike out to Lower Wolfjaw is steep and rugged, passing over Hedgehog Mountain. It also includes a very difficult slab rock scramble.

Read ›

Chaga Fungus Tea 2746 hiking trail

This is How You Make Delicious Chaga Tea

Chaga tea offers many health benefits. This is how you make it. Two methods.

Read ›

scenic view from Cross Mountain Meathook

Cross Mountain Meathook

A long, quiet, remote and insanely beautiful hike with epic views.

Read ›