pre-dawn mountain ridges

Overlook Mountain Trail

You can hike up Overlook Mountain’s easy trail in about an hour. The fire tower at the end of this short trail is positioned to give one of the most dramatic views 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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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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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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broken trail sign on huckleberry loop

Huckleberry Loop, Catskills: a Mile-by-Mile Guide

Is Huckleberry Loop Trail the most beautiful hike in The Catskills? This mile-by-mile guide walks you through it all.

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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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Brook with chasm-like walls

Secret Hike: Waterfall Superhighway

A stunning Catskills “canyon” dotted with multiple gorgeous waterfalls.

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The summit of Croagh Patrick seen from its main hiking trail

Croagh Patrick: Hiking Trail Guide

One of the most scenic hikes in Ireland.

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lions head summit marker in taconics

Lion’s Head

The Lion’s Head Trail in Salisbury, CT, is a delightful short hike with great views that you can actually fit into your day.

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fire tower shot from below

Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023

Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.

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Pitch pines

Secret Hike: Gunks in the Cats

A true bushwhack to a surprisingly Gunks-like patch in the heart of The Catskills.

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hikers sitting around high falls convervation area waterfall

High Falls Conservation Area

Short, easy hiking trails wind through High Falls Conservation Area to one of the most spectacular waterfalls in New York.

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inspiration point view

Inspiration Point (Catskills)

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

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View of Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge at sunset from Anthony’s Nose

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.

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