Spring
Hike reports listed here were done in the spring.
Best Hiking Boots 2021
If you’re looking for a new pair of hiking boots, this list of hiking boot brands and models will get you started with great recommendations.
Black Fly Bites
When to watch for black flies, how best to avoid them, how to repel them, and how to treat their super-itchy bites.
10 Best Post-Hike Hacks
One of my favorite post-hike hacks is to have a clean pair of socks and shoes waiting for me back at the car. It’s so amazing. Here are ten fantastic ways to treat yourself after a big day.
Best Hiking Books for Hikers
These are the best hiking books I’ve found to date. Many were instrumental in getting me started, and giving me the confidence to hike the wilderness solo.
Death at Kaaterskill Falls
A young man from Yonkers went missing April 24. His rented car was found April 30 at the main Laurel House Road parking lot. Later the same day, his body was recovered from the base of the falls.
Where are the Catskill Mountains?
The Catskill Mountains are located in New York State, just south of Albany and just west of the Hudson River.
Tick Season
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.
Shaupeneak Ridge
Shaupeneak Ridge 936.5 acre park contains almost 10 miles of easy trails, suitable for easy hiking, kayaking, fishing, trail running, picnicking, and excellent mountain-biking.
Thru-Hike North Dome & Mount Sherrill
This intense bushwhack route over two of the most difficult Catskills mountains is challenging and rewarding in equal measure: an epic climb, a great scenic ledge, a rock chasm, and something more…
Silver Hollow Notch & Edgewood Mountains
This short hike to a quiet Catskills double-peak proves how the Lower Catskills can often out-reward the Classic 3500 Peaks.
Hiking & Camping Gear List
There’s so much to read and learn about hiking gear. Here’s a basic list of the things you’ll use most often on your day hikes and campouts.
Snowshoe Basics
The number of snowshoe options is overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide on what to look for, and where to get your first pair.
How Cold is Too Cold to Hike?
January 2021 had some spectacularly cold weather in the Catskills, with wind chills dipping close to -40°F / -40°C at summits. But how cold is too cold? Here are 6 things you need to think about: weather, comfort, safety, frostbite, hypothermia, and gear.
Winter Day-Hike Essentials Checklist
Download this helpful PDF with explanatory notes and a handy winter day-hike essentials checklist.
Platte Clove Road Access in Winter
In winter, Platte Clove Road is closed at its eastern side. Here’s the alternate route to the Eastern Devil’s Path mountains and Kaaterskill High Peak.
Microspikes & Trail Crampons – Winter Traction
This short post discusses the basic differences between cleats, microspikes, trail crampons, crampons, and snowshoes — and describes the safety benefits of each.
