cascade’s open rocky summit

Cascade & Porter Hike

This entry-level Adirondack High Peak hike is a great introduction to the rigors of mountain hiking: rough trails, rocky scrambles and incredible views make this short day-hike super rewarding.

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photo of fire tower at Hadley Mountain

Hadley Mountain Fire Tower

Delightful trails and gorgeous views. Hadley Mountain Fire Tower has a lot you’ll love.

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hiker welcomes dawn daylight savings all year DST

Ditch the Switch: The Case for Year-Round Daylight Saving Time

Our twice-yearly switch between Daylight Saving Time and standard time is disruptive, damaging, and dangerous. It needs to end.

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knoll and mountain from indian head

Indian Head Catskills Hike

Indian Head is my absolute favorite single-mountain hike in the Catskills.

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four of the best hiking boot brands in 2021

Best Hiking Boots of 2023

Hot brand information and my recommendations for the best hiking boots right now.

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Fall Foliage Catskills

Catskills & Adirondacks Fall Foliage Reports 2023

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

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Sean Dix Range

Why Turning Around is the Boldest Move

Press on or turn back? This split second decision can be life-altering.

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hikers climbing rugged trail in autumnal scene

12 Best Fall Foliage Hikes in the Catskills

When the fall foliage hits, the Catskills offer a true golden spectacle. Here are a the most popular Catskills hikes to view the autumn extravaganza.

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Yellow backpack with the 10 essentials inside

The 10 Essentials: What to Pack for Every Hike

The 10 Essentials is a list of items you should carry on every trip into the backcountry.

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Hiker at Ashokan Quarry Trail

6 Easy Catskills Hikes

Want a deep Catskills experience without the angst of a rigorous mountain hike? These are the hikes for you.

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brand new hiking boot stuck deep in mud

Walk Through Mud

Here are three great reasons to always walk directly down the middle of every trail, and especially through any mud puddles or water you find on the trail.

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black legged deer tick on a blade of grass

Tick Season Tactics for Hikers

Tick season sucks. When to worry, where to look, how to avoid, the best ways to prevent, and how to treat any tick bites you find.

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view from balsam lake fire tower of balsam forest below

Balsam Lake Fire Tower (updated)

Incredible 360° wilderness views make this hike spectacular at any time of year.

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hiker in Diamond Notch Hollow

Diamond Notch Falls via Diamond Notch Road

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

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jay mountain ridge in the Adirondacks

Jay Mountain Ridge

Jay Mountain Ridge stands as the most rewarding and memorable hiking experience I had in 2022.

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Hurricane Ledge on Kaaterskill High Peak

Kaaterskill High Peak via Hurricane Ledge

Hiking Kaaterskill High Peak via Hurricane Ledge means a long wet hike in to the base of the summit — but then an epic Catskills climb.

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