History


Ferncliff Forest Fire Tower
This Ferncliff Forest Fire Tower hike offers easy, delightful trails that lead to stunning 360° views of the surrounding Hudson Valley. Here’s everything you need to know.

Pine Swamp Mine in Harriman State Park
This hike to and beyond Pine Swamp Mine is a wonderful butterfly-shaped figure-of-eight loop through Harriman State Park.

How Indian is Indian Head?
Native American communities were forced out of The Catskills by the Indian Removal Act, signed into law in 1830 by President Andrew Jackson.

What Counties Make up the Hudson Valley?
No human should be prepared to die on this hill, but here we are.

Vroman’s Nose Trail
This short moderate loop over Vroman’s Nose climaxes at a stunning series of outrageously scenic ledges.

Secret Hike: Mega Mounds & Shadow Pool
This short, strange hike leads through one of the largest quarries in The Catskills.

Advice for Solo Female Hikers: Persist
Women hikers often face pushback for heading into the wilderness alone. It’s time to call it what it is.

A Brief History of Black Excellence in the Catskills
While best known for its iconic landscapes, The Catskills area has also been the site of important and often overlooked stories of Black entrepreneurs, entertainers and vacationers.

The Fried Chicken War of 1881
The Fried Chicken War is quality ding-dong Catskills drama. Oh, the shade!

Arnold Guyot’s 1879 Catskills Map
Do you know where Bee Line Mountain is in The Catskills? You’re about to find out…

Secret Hike: Winter Views, Giant Quarry, Waterfalls, Ruins
I had no idea what I’d find on this unsung trail. I was blown away.