May 2008

5/3 (Sat) SHEPAUG RIVER - Steep Rock Reservation (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Steep Rock is a lovely "unknown" preserve in western Connecticut, and through it runs the wild and scenic Shepaug River. We'll be following an easy hiking trail alongside the river, with one short, steep climb to a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the area.

5/4 (Sun) MT. MOHICAN - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (NJ). MODERATE HIKE (10-11 miles). This hike includes a scenic section of the Appalachian Trail in the Kittatinny Mountains, near the NJ-PA border. After a 1000-foot trail-climb we'll have great views from Mt. Mohican and Catfish Mountain, and there's also a roaring mountain stream with cascades. Some of the trail is quite rocky.

5/10 (Sat) SUNRISE MOUNTAIN / STOKES STATE FOREST (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). We'll be hiking today in the northern part of Stokes State Forest, following a stretch of the Appalachian Trail as it winds along the top of the scenic Kittatinny Mountain ridge. There are great views from Sunrise Mountain (1,653 ft.) and other high points. Much of the trail is very rocky.

5/11 (Sun) DUNDERBERG VALLEY - Bear Mountain State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Following several trails and old woods roads, we'll be circling around the scenic valley between Dunderberg Mountain and Bear Mountain, near the Hudson River. Included will be a stop at a beautiful mountain stream. Our hiking route includes hilly terrain.

5/17 (Sat) MINE HILL PRESERVE (Connecticut). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (5-6 miles). Mine Hill is an unusual preserve that lies alongside the beautiful Shepaug River in western Connecticut. Along with interesting remains of historic mines there are expanses of delightfully wild land forested with hemlocks and hardwoods. Some of the hiking is easy, but there are also some big hills and occasional rough, rocky stretches.

5/18 (Sun) SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN / TWIN MOUNTAIN - Catskill Park (New York) MODERATE- STRENUOUS HIKE (9 miles). Join us as we climb, via hiking trail, two of the most spectacular peaks in the wild northeastern Catskills, Sugarloaf (3,800 ft.) and Twin (3,640 ft.); total elevation gain is over 2,500 feet, and the trails are unusually rugged and steep -- some of the toughest in the Catskills! Several splendid views. For experienced and especially fit hikers.

5/23-26 (Fri-Mon) CATSKILLS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. For the first time in many years we’ll be spending Memorial Day Weekend in the 700,000-acre Catskill Park in upstate New York, and the Catskills couldn’t be lovelier than they are in late spring. We'll be walking in with backpacks 2-3 mostly easy miles (some of it off-trail) to camp near the beautiful Neversink River, southwest of Slide Mountain, in the largest wilderness area in the Catskills, and taking (optional) day hikes from there. Some easy hiking is available by the river, and for more experienced and fit hikers, there are also moderate or moderate-strenuous hikes available to the summits of nearby mountains for some terrific vistas -- among them Slide Mountain (4,180 ft., highest in the Catskills), which involves an elevation gain of 2,000 feet -- as well as Table Mountain (3847 ft.) and Peekamoose Mountain (3,843 ft). Another available daytime option is relaxing by the river. Departure will be early Friday am, return by Monday evening. If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 2/25/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra charge for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Catskills). Fee for members: $395 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $195). Non-members: $495 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295).

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June 2008

6/1 (Sun) VERKEERDER KILL FALLS / ICE CAVES MOUNTAIN - Sam's Point Preserve (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10-11 miles). Located next to Minnewaska State Park, the relatively new 4,600-acre Sam's Point Preserve protects an area of magnificent Shawangunk cliff scenery. There are wonderful views from elevations as high as 2,255 feet, and we'll be hiking to spectacular Verkeerder Kill Falls. Included is some rough and rocky trail.

6/7 (Sat) VANCAMPENS GLEN / DELAWARE RIVER - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (6 miles). On today’s hiking trip we'll be following some relatively new trails to do a hilly loop through a scenic part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area. Highlights: Vancampens Glen, a splendid mountain gorge with a series of waterfalls, and we'll also follow a stretch of trail alongside the Delaware River.

6/8 (Sun) AWOSTING FALLS / PETERS KILL CLIFFS  - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (7-8 miles). Today we’ll be hiking in the northeastern part of Minnewaska State Park, visiting two lovely waterfalls and enjoying more of the splendid Shawangunk cliff vistas for which these mountains are famous. Included are stretches of rough, rocky trail with occasional steep pitches.

6/14 (Sat) SUTHERLAND POND / BLACK ROCK FOREST (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Privately owned Black Rock Forest is a lovely mountain forest located just west of the Hudson River. Our hiking route will take us over several little mountaintops, with great views of the Hudson River Valley, and also to beautiful Sutherland Pond for an optional swim. Included are a couple of steep trail-climbs during our first couple of miles.

6/15 (Sun) HIDDEN VALLEY RESERVATION (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Join us today as we visit another of Connecticut's little-known natural areas, Hidden Valley Reservation, which lies only a short distance north of Steep Rock Reservation. Highlights include a lovely stretch of the Shepaug River, a nice vista, and some beautiful dense forest. Most of the hiking here is easy but there are some sizable hills.

6/21 (Sat) PASSAIC RIVER - Morristown National Historical Park (New Jersey). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (5-6 miles). For this hike we'll be visiting New Jersey's scenic and densely-forested Morristown National Historical Park, hiking to the beautiful Passaic River, which is wild as it flows through the region. While much of our route is easy, it includes some big semi-steep hills.

6/22 (Sun) BLACKHEAD MOUNTAIN / BLACK DOME - Catskill Forest Preserve (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8 miles). Today we'll be hiking some ruggedly spectacular trails in the Blackhead Mountain Range of the northeastern Catskills, climbing Black Dome (3,980 ft.) and Blackhead Mountain (3,940 ft.). The initial 1,800-foot ascent is very rocky and steep, and other stretches are also challenging. The rewards include magnificent vistas. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

6/28 (Sat) UPPER HOUSATONIC RIVER (CT). EASY HIKE (6-7 miles). On today's hike we'll be walking alongside western Connecticut's Upper Housatonic River, following the famous Appalachian Trail for several miles as we explore one of the river's wildest and loveliest stretches. The trail is very easy here, with just a few small hills.

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July 2008

7/3-7/6 (Thurs-Sun) BIG MOOSE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Join us for 4 days over July 4th weekend in the splendid 50,000-acre wilderness area southeast of huge and famous Big Moose Lake, in the western Adirondacks -- a place of small mountains and no fewer than 64 lovely lakes and ponds, in some of the wildest and most spectacular country of the eastern U.S. -- but this area is visited far less frequently than many better-known wilderness areas. We’ll be walking in 3-5 miles with backpacks over mostly easy but very hilly trails to camp near one of the lakes, and then taking easy to moderate day hikes each day, all of which are optional. You could also choose to spend one or more days relaxing by the lake. Great swimming is available each day! Departure will be early Thursday morning and we’ll return Sunday evening. Cash refunds are not available after 4/3/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $395 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $195). Non-members: $495 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295).

7/12 (Sat) STONY BROOK – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Stony Brook is a large and lovely mountain stream that merges with Pine Meadow Brook in the southwestern part of New York’s Harriman State Park. We’ll be hiking alongside the brook for a couple of miles on a relatively new trail, enjoying the sound of the water during an extended lunch break, and also stopping at nearby Lake Sebago. While most of the hike is easy, some stretches of trail are a bit rough, rocky and hilly.

7/13 (Sun) SHAWANGUNK CLIFFS - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10-11 miles). New York’s Shawangunk Mountains are commonly considered to be the most impressive mountains this side of the Catskills. Today we'll be taking a hiking route over the open rock ledges and cliffs in the southwestern part of Minnewaska State Park -- with superb views along the way -- and stopping for a swim break at Lake Awosting.

7/19 (Sat) ISLAND POND - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6 miles). On today's hike we'll be following some hilly trails through a wild and attractive section of Harriman Park, less than 50 miles north of NYC. There will be a long lunch break at Island Pond, one of the park's most scenic lakes, and in the afternoon we'll negotiate the rock crevices of the Lemon Squeezer. Terrain is hilly with a few short, steep climbs and a couple of miles of bushwhacking (off-trail hiking).

7/20 (Sun) PEEKAMOOSE MOUNTAIN / TABLE MOUNTAIN - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE- STRENUOUS HIKE (10-12 miles). Today we'll be ascending via trail both Peekamoose Mountain (3,843 ft.) and nearby Table Mountain (3,847 ft.), in the magnificent wilderness of the southern Catskills. Total elevation gain is over 2,500 feet, and some of it's steep and rugged. We’ll be rewarded with some spectacular views. For experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

7/26 (Sat) NORTH MOUNTAIN / NORTH LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-10 miles). This hike will take us along the southern part of the Escarpment Trail, commonly considered to be the most scenic trail in New York’s Catskills, with many outstanding views. Hiking highlights will include a panorama from North Point and a swim stop at North Lake. A couple of relatively steep but short trail-climbs are included.

7/27 (Sun) EAST KILL CREEK - Catskill Forest Preserve (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). On today’s hiking trip we'll be returning to the splendid northeastern Catskills, heading for a lovely mountain meadow and beautiful East Kill Creek, where we’ll have lunch at a waterfall (which includes a pool suitable for taking a dip). Terrain is very gentle, with few hills, and the walk will be especially leisurely (there's also the possibility of a more rigorous lunchtime mini-hike option for more ambitious participants).

7/30-8/6 (Wed-Wed) WEST CANADA LAKES WILDERNESS BACKPACKING TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Time for another week-long trip on the Northville-Placid Trail (!) -- our second year in a row -- due to the “popular demand” of our 2007 participants, who had an altogether great time. Plan now to be with us as we visit another remote and splendid area of the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, which is as large as the state of Vermont and has scenery as wild and lovely as anywhere in the East. On this 8-day trip we'll be traversing the West Canada Lakes Wilderness on foot with backpacks, hiking 38 roadless miles of the 130-mile Northville-Placid Trail through the south-central Adirondacks, averaging a few miles a day (with additional hiking options available for more ambitious participants). During the week we’ll be passing at least 9 gorgeous lakes and ponds, several of which we’ll camp next to. Most of the trail is easy but there are hills and occasional rough spots, and depending on this year's weather, some of it could be muddy. Unlimited swimming is available! Reserving early is highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Departure will be early Wednesday morning (7/30), and we’ll return the following Wednesday (8/6). If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 5/1/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $650 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295). Non-members: $750 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $395).

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August 2008

8/9 (Sat) PINE MEADOW BROOK - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we'll be hiking a hilly and sometimes very rocky trail alongside scenic Pine Meadow Brook, which includes an area with giant boulders and cascading water. Before returning we'll also pay a visit to beautiful Pine Meadow Lake.

8/10 (Sun) ECHO LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Echo Lake is a beautiful mountain lake in the eastern Catskills of upstate New York, nestled between two high mountains. We'll be hiking in through some attractive forest, with hilly and sometimes rocky terrain but minor changes in elevation, and taking an extended lunch and swim break at the lake.

8/16 (Sat) KAATERSKILL FALLS / NORTH LAKE - Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). The Catskills are home to some of the most impressive and unspoiled mountain scenery in southern New York State. Our hiking itinerary will include a visit to the top of 260-foot Kaaterskill Falls, a series of wonderful views from high cliffs, and a stop at North Lake for a swim. There are a couple of short, steep, and very rocky stretches of trail.

8/17 (Sun) ASHOKAN HIGH POINT / KANAPE BROOK - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8 miles). Today we'll be hiking to the top of Ashokan High Point (3,080 ft.), in the southern Catskills, for some magnificent vistas; half of our route will be alongside beautiful Kanape Brook. The elevation gain is nearly 2,000 feet, with some steep stretches of trail. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

8/23 (Sat) LAKE AWOSTING / RAINBOW FALLS - Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). Lake Awosting is a lovely and well-preserved mountain lake at an elevation of 1,867 ft. in a beautiful area of the Shawangunk Mountains. Before hiking to the lake for a swim break we'll visit Rainbow Falls, following a hilly and occasionally rugged route over rocky cliffs for some great views.

8/24 (Sun) DUNNFIELD CREEK - Worthington State Forest (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Dunnfield Creek is a lovely mountain stream which runs down from the Kittatinny Mountains into the Delaware River. After one major hill we'll be hiking alongside the creek on an easy trail, and relaxing (with opportunities to jump in) along the way.

8/29-9/1 (Fri-Mon) ROCK POND / NORTHERN PHARAOH LAKE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Be with us for an end-of-summer mini-vacation on Labor Day Weekend as we return to the magnificent but relatively little-known Pharaoh Lake Wilderness in the mountains of the southeastern Adirondacks, which has scenery as wild and lovely as any location in the Northeast. We'll be hiking in 4-5 easy but hilly miles to camp near Rock Pond, a scenic mountain lake with slabs of rock that slope into the water and offer perfect swim spots, and there’s a trail that completely encircles the lake. Easy to moderate hiking options here include trips to several other lakes and an 830-foot climb of Treadway Mountain (2,240 ft.) for some impressive panoramic views. As always, other options here include swimming and/or spending one or more days relaxing at the lake. Departure will be early Saturday am, return Monday evening (Labor Day). If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 5/30/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $395 / Member-driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $195. Non-members: $495 / Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $295.

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September 2008

9/6 (Sat) LAUREL POND - Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). One of NJ's lesser-known parks, 18,000-acre Wawayanda State Park is a tract of mostly wild and unspoiled forest, including areas thick with rhododendron and cedar, featuring 255-acre Wawayanda Lake. Our hike will include a stop at beautiful Laurel Pond. It's easy but hilly walking with a few rough spots.

9/7 (Sun) LITTLE POND / CABOT MOUNTAIN - Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Today we'll be hiking in the beautiful but less-frequently-visited mountains of the Western Catskills. Our route will take us to the top of Cabot Mountain (2,970 ft.) for some fine views, and we'll spend time at lake-sized Little Pond, and also visit a lovely mountain meadow. This is one of our most challenging moderate hikes, with a couple of very steep trail-climbs included.

9/13 (Sat) MILLBROOK MOUNTAIN / SHAWANGUNK CLIFFS – Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7-8 miles). The spectacular cliffs of the Shawangunk Mountains are justly famous, and Millbrook Mountain is said to have one of the highest sheer drops east of the Mississippi. Today's itinerary includes some rough stretches of trail. Among the rewards are a number of magnificent views, including from “Gertrude’s Nose.”

9/14 (Sun) WINDHAM HIGH PEAK / BURNT KNOB – Catskill Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (11 miles). On this trip we’ll be hiking to the top of the northernmost peak in New York’s Catskills, 3524-foot Windham High Peak (1880 ft. elevation gain), and then 3180-foot Burnt knob. The day’s total elevation gain will be over 2500 feet, with a few steep stretches, and we’ll be rewarded by some spectacular mountain vistas. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who can maintain a brisk pace.

9/20 (Sat) APPALACHIAN TRAIL: HUDSON HIGHLANDS TO FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Today we’ll be hiking the Appalachian Trail corridor from Hudson Highlands State Park (in New York’s Hudson Valley) to Fahnestock State Park, which will take us thorough some beautiful mountain forest and over little mountaintops with a couple of fine vistas. There are no major climbs but plenty of ups and downs over sometimes rocky trail.

9/21 (Sun) WARD POUND RIDGE RESERVATION (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). 4,700-acre Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is the largest and one of the loveliest parks in New York’s Westchester County. Our hiking itinerary will take us through some attractive deciduous forest, with pine and hemlock groves, and to a couple of fine viewpoints. It’s very hilly but otherwise easy.

9/27 (Sat) STEENEYKILL LAKE - High Point State Park (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (6 miles). High Point State Park includes New Jersey's highest elevations (the highest being 1,803 feet). Most of today’s hike is within the Dryden Kuser Natural Area, which features a lush cedar swamp with rhododendron and conifers, plus fine mountain vistas. We'll also stop at scenic Steeneykill Lake. Much of the hiking is easy, but some of the terrain is rocky and there are a couple of steep hills.

9/28 (Sun) HASECO LAKE – Minnewaska State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles) Today we’ll be hiking to beautiful Haseco Lake (also known by the lowly name Mud Pond), which weren’t able to visit for many years -- until last year -- because the trail beyond the lake had been closed by a private landowner (that land is now thankfully part of the park). We’ll have lunch on some splendid cliffs with outstanding views, and our route will take us along the north shore of Lake Awosting. There are no major elevation changes today but portions of the trail are quite rocky.

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October 2008

10/4 (Sat) MACEDONIA BROOK STATE PARK (Connecticut). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). Located in western Connecticut, Macedonia Brook State Park is a large and beautiful tract of wild forest with small but rugged mountains. Elevations changes are not great, but the hiking trails are rough and steep in a few places (with one especially rugged and steep descent). There are great views from the top and shoulder of Cobble Mountain (1,380 feet).

10/5 (Sun) PAWLING NATURE RESERVE (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). This is a rather large and little-known tract of wild forest in Putnam County. Several miles of trails run through the reserve, including the Appalachian Trail. There’s a fine vista from a ridge, a lovely hemlock gorge with a little waterfall, and a splendid sense of isolation. It’s mostly easy hiking with a few very steep hills.

10/10-13 (Fri-Mon) HA-DE-RON-DAH WILDERNESS TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Be with us for 4 days on Columbus Day Weekend as we re-visit the magnificent Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness in the western Adirondacks, which features scores of lovely lakes and ponds nestled among small mountains. We'll be walking in some 3-5 miles with backpacks on mostly easy trails to camp near one of the larger lakes, and then taking easy to moderate hikes each day, all of which are optional. Day hike destinations include a number of other scenic wild lakes, some of which have sandy beaches, and there are also many streams and rivers to explore. Other options include swimming and spending one or more days relaxing by the lake. This is fall foliage time in the Adirondacks, and the colors are often spectacular here on Columbus Day Weekend. It will also be our final camping trip of the season. Departure will be early Friday am, return Monday evening (Columbus Day). If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 7/10/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $395 / Member-driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $195. Non-members: $495 / Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $295.

10/18 (Sat) BLACK ROCK – Black Rock Forest (New York) EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we’ll be exploring the scenic trails in the northwestern part of Black Rock Forest, less than 60 miles north of NYC -- and also hiking to Black Rock, where there’s a terrific view of the Hudson Valley and Hudson River. Terrain is very hilly and while there are no major climbs today, there will be several short, steep, and rocky ascents and descents.

10/19 (Sun) MT. EVERETT - Mt. Everett Reservation (Massachusetts). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (9-10 miles).Today we'll be returning to the splendid Taconic Mountains near the MA/CT border, where one finds an especially beautiful wilderness setting. We'll be climbing 1,800 feet, steeply at times, to the top of Mt. Everett (2,602 ft.), where there are wonderful views. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a brisk pace.

10/25 (Sat) LAKE HOPEWELL / HUNTINGTON STATE PARK (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Huntington State Park is a lovely 700-acre tract of wild forest in southwest Connecticut. Along with a feeling of remoteness there are several attractive lakes, including large and beautiful Lake Hopewell. The hiking here is easier than on most of our easy hikes, with just a few hills.

10/26 (Sun) CANDLEWOOD HILL / FAHNESTOCK RIDGES - Fahnestock State Park (NY). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). Utilizing some relatively new trails, we’ll be exploring the south-central part of scenic Fahnestock State Park. Highlights include 986-foot Candlewood Hill -- a small mountain -- which features some of the park's finest views. We'll also stop at two beautiful mountain streams. Some of our route will be over rocky trail with occasional steep pitches.

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November 2008

11/1 (Sat) CROSS RIVER – Ward Pound Ridge Reservation (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). New hike! For many years we’ve been visiting Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, but until today we’ve never offered a hike in the northern part of the reservation. Located here is the scenic Cross River (the size of a large mountain stream), which we’ll be hiking alongside for a considerable distance, and we’ll explore the forest north of the river as well. It’s easy with occasional hills (one sizable one).

11/2 (Sun) HUBBARD-PERKINS CONSERVATION AREA (New York). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles). Consisting of several thousand acres of land that are now part of Fahnestock State Park, this wild area features dense forest, small mountains with great views, a lake, and a relatively new 22-mile network of hiking trails. There will be many ups and downs today, a couple of them on the steep side, and also some long, easy stretches of trail.

11/8 (Sat) SUNFISH POND - Worthington State Forest (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Sunfish Pond is a scenic glacial lake nestled in a Kittatinny Mountains a few miles from the Delaware Water Gap. We'll be climbing gradually to the pond via the rocky Appalachian Trail, and our return will include an easier route along rhododendron-lined Dunnfield Creek. This is one of our easier moderate hikes.

11/9 (Sun) LAKE MINNEWASKA - Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (7 miles). The Minnewaska area in the Shawangunk Mountains (near New Paltz, New York) has long been known for its unusual beauty. We'll be utilizing old carriage roads today to explore the lake and surrounding mountains, with superb views from multi-leveled cliffs. It's mostly easy hiking.

11/15 (Sat) TUMBLING WATERS GORGE / POCONO RIM - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (Pennsylvania). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we'll be visiting PA's eastern Poconos near the Delaware River. Highlights include a lovely gorge with waterfalls and pools, and a vista of the Delaware River Valley. There are a couple of very steep but short trail-climbs. The rest of the hiking is hilly but on the easy side.

11/16 (Sun) BREAKNECK RIDGE / SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN - Hudson Highlands State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (7-8 miles). On today’s hike we'll be climbing Breakneck Ridge (1,200 ft.), which rises up precipitously from the Hudson River. The views are the most dramatic and impressive to be found anywhere along the Hudson. Some of the trail is very steep and rugged. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who can maintain a reasonably brisk pace (when appropriate).

11/22 (Sat) BUTLER SANCTUARY (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we'll be heading for Butler Sanctuary, owned by the Nature Conservancy -- one of Westchester County's little-known gems of wild land. This lovely tract includes a network of winding trails, hemlock groves, and a little gorge with a beautiful mountain stream. There are many hills and some rough spots along the way.

11/23 (Sun) HIGH POINT STATE PARK (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). Located at the northern tip of New Jersey, High Point State Park includes the highest elevation in the state (1,803 ft.) at High Point. We'll be hiking on the hilly and rocky Appalachian Trail and other trails through the park, stopping at lovely Lake Rutherford, and enjoying great views from the ridges of the Kittatinny Mountains.

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December 2008

12/6 (Sat) MEYER PRESERVE (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). For today’s hike we’ll be returning to one of Westchester County's loveliest and least-known natural areas, the Meyer Preserve. There's a beautiful little ravine with a stream and lots of thick hemlock and pine forest. The terrain is very hilly, but most of the walking is easy.

12/7 (Sun) ROUND HILL / HUBBARD-PERKINS RIDGES (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). Today we'll be re-visiting the Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area, in NY's Fahnestock State Park, an area of scenic forested mountain ridges, lovely streams, and beautiful lakes. There are several semi-steep ascents to rocky knobs, along with easier stretches of trail. Hiking highlights include an especially fine vista from the top of Round Hill.

12/13 (Sat) OSBORNE PRESERVE / HUDSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK (New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). The beautiful Osborne Preserve is part of Hudson Highlands State Park, east of the Hudson River. We'll be following several trails -- including a section of the Appalachian Trail -- through this scenic area, which includes dense stands of mountain laurel. It's hilly but mostly easy hiking, with one short, steep climb to a fine vista.

12/14 (Sun) DUNDERBERG MOUNTAIN / TIMP / WEST MOUNTAIN – Bear Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8-9 miles). Today we’ll be hiking to the tops of three sizable mountains south of Bear Mountain, starting with a steep 1,000-foot climb of Dunderberg Mountain. Our total ascent will be over 2,000 feet, and the trails are extremely rocky and rugged here. All three mountains offer wonderful vistas. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace.

12/20 (Sat) PINE MEADOW LAKE - Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Many would agree that Pine Meadow Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Harriman State Park, and it's one of the few that's relatively isolated. Today's hiking itinerary will take us over several small mountains, with fine views, and we'll have lunch at the lake. Some occasionally steep and rocky trail-climbs are included.

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January 2009

A NOTE ABOUT CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING & SNOWSHOEING TRIPS: On most weekends in recent winters we haven’t had enough snow for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in local mountain areas, so we now schedule day hikes for every Saturday and Sunday in January and February -- but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips will be added to our schedule whenever enough snow materializes for these activities. If you’re on our e-mail list you’ll receive announcements of any schedule changes, including the likely addition of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trips.

Please note: winter trip locations are always tentative and subject to change up to the last minute in the event of weather-related changes in trail conditions. For more about our cross country ski trips and what's involved, click on the Trip Information page and go to "Information About Winter Trips".

1/3 (Sat) CRANBERRY MOUNTAIN / BREAKNECK POND – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we’ll be back in the forested mountains of NY’s Harriman State Park -- visiting and lunching at Breakneck Pond, a scenic mountain lake that we’ll reach by hiking a mostly unmarked path, and we’ll be meandering around on the ridges of Cranberry Mountain. Most of the trails are easy and gently hilly except for one large, semi-steep hill at the beginning.

1/4 (Sun) FINGERBOARD MOUNTAIN / ISLAND POND – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9-10 miles). New hike! We’ll be visiting the northwestern part of Harriman Park today, and for the first time traversing Fingerboard Mountain and several other small mountains, plus looping around Island Pond, where we’ll probably have our lunch break. Elevation changes on this hike are relatively minor, but there are lots of short and occasionally steep ups & downs over rocky trail.

1/10 (Sat) LAKE SKENONTO - Harriman State Park (NY). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (7 miles). Today we'll be following hiking trails through an attractive section of Harriman Park, with a stop at Lake Skenonto, one of the most beautiful lakes in the area; we'll also have fine views from some small mountains. Portions of the hike are more moderate than easy, with some short, steep stretches of trail.

1/11 (Sun) BEAR MOUNTAIN / WEST MOUNTAIN – Bear Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (10-12 miles). For the first time in 2008 we offered a hike featuring New York’s famous 1284-foot Bear Mountain (which we’d previously avoided because it’s often overcrowded and has a parking lot on top). But this is an impressive mountain with striking features, and it offers spectacular vistas overlooking the Hudson River (and we’ll be visiting off-season). We’ll start with a steep 1000-foot climb of the mountain, and after descending we’ll climb nearby West Mountain. Total elevation gain and loss is well over 2,000 feet, and some of the trail is extremely rough and rocky. For experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a relatively fast pace (when appropriate).

1/17 (Sat) STONY BROOK – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Stony Brook is a large and lovely mountain stream that merges with Pine Meadow Brook in the southwestern part of New York’s Harriman State Park. We’ll be hiking alongside the brook for a couple of miles on a relatively new trail, enjoying the sound of the water during a lunch break, and also stopping at nearby Lake Sebago. While most of the hike is easy, some stretches of trail are a bit rough, rocky and hilly.

1/18 (Sun) LETTERROCK MOUNTAIN / LAKE ASCOTI – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (11-12 miles). Today we’re offering another hike in the north-central part of NY’s Harriman State Park, featuring several small mountains, little waterfalls on Tiorati Brook, and beautiful Lake Ascoti. Included will be a couple of miles of semi-bushwhacking (following some unmarked paths) on Letterrock Mountain.

1/24 (Sat) LADENTOWN MOUNTAIN - Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-9 miles) Today's hiking itinerary will take us through the southern part of Harriman State Park (about 40 miles northwest of New York City), which features fine vistas from small mountaintops, beautiful mountain streams, and several lakes and reservoirs, including scenic Third Reservoir, where we'll have lunch. Most elevation changes are minor but there will be a few short, steep climbs over rocky trail.

1/25 (Sun) BLUE MOUNTAIN RESERVATION (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles).On this hike we’ll be returning to Blue Mountain Reservation, near Peekskill, which features scenic forested terrain with a couple of lovely lakes. Highlights include a view of the nearby Hudson River from the top of Blue Mountain (665 ft.), accessible by a short, semi-steep climb. Occasionally hilly but otherwise the hiking is easy.

1/31 (Sat) ISLAND POND – Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). New hike! We’ve long had an easy-moderate summer hike to Island Pond, but today we’ll be following an entirely different (and easier) itinerary to this lovely mountain lake in the northwestern part of New York’s Harriman Park -- passing through some beautiful hemlock forest en route, and stopping at two different scenic spots along the lakeshore that we’ve never visited before as a group. It’s hilly hiking, but most of today’s inclines are gradual.

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February 2009

(Please note: winter trip locations are always tentative and subject to change up to the last minute in the event of weather-related changes in trail conditions.)

2/1 (Sun) BLAUVELT MOUNTAIN / LAKE SKENONTO – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8-10 miles). Today we’ll be ascending several small mountains in the southwestern part of Harriman State Park, including Blauvelt Mountain and Parker Cabin Mountain, and also visiting beautiful Lake Skenonto. Some of the trails are extremely rocky, hilly, and occasionally steep, with many longer stretches that are on the easy side.

2/7 (Sat) TIORATI BROOK, Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). Tiorati Brook is a large and beautiful mountain stream that runs through the north-central part of Harriman Park, just an hour northwest of NYC, and includes some little waterfalls. On today's mostly-easy hiking itinerary, with a few sizable hills, we'll explore some scenic forested trails and rest by the brook at two different locations.

2/8 (Sun) STOCKBRIDGE MOUNTAIN / SILVERMINE LAKE – Harriman State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). Today we’ll be taking a scenic loop hike in the north-central part of NY’s Harriman Park, which will include several miles of the Appalachian Trail. Highlights include some beautiful views from Stockbridge Mountain as well as a scenic stretch of hiking trail alongside sizable Silvermine Lake.

2/14 (Sat) GIANT STAIRS / PALISADES - Palisades Interstate Park (New Jersey/New York). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (5-6 miles). This hike will take us along an especially scenic portion of the Palisades on the NY-NJ border, with spectacular cliffs offering great views of the Hudson River, plus a lovely waterfall. Included are two challenging miles of very rough hiking trail over and around giant boulders ("Giant Stairs"), plus a 500-foot ascent from the river. The rest is easy.

2/15 (Sun) MT. TAURUS - Hudson Highlands State Park (NY). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (8-10 miles). Today we’ll be hiking to the top of 1,420-foot Mt. Taurus, which rises abruptly from the Hudson River in Hudson Highlands State Park, and we'll also cross the northern part of Breakneck Ridge -- with outstanding views of the river along the way. Portions of the trail are rough, rocky, and steep. For experienced hikers who are in great shape and capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace (when appropriate).

2/21 (Sat) LAKE LOOKOUT – Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles). Today's hike in Wawayanda State Park will take us a number of miles to lovely Lake Lookout, and through an enormous expanse of rhododendron forest and cedar swamp (the significant bear population here should be hibernating). Elevation changes here are less than on most of our moderate hikes (the rating is primarily because of the distance), but the terrain is hilly, and some of it’s rocky or muddy.

2/22 (Sun) PINE MEADOW BROOK - Harriman State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Today we'll be hiking a hilly and sometimes very rocky trail alongside scenic Pine Meadow Brook, which includes an area with giant boulders and cascading water. Before returning we'll also pay a visit to beautiful Pine Meadow Lake.

2/28 (Sat) BEAVER POND / WICCOPEE RIDGE - Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area (New York). EASY HIKE (6 miles). On this hike we'll be visiting the Hubbard-Perkins Conservation Area, which protects several thousand acres of wild and lovely forested land that’s now part of Fahnestock State Park. Most of our itinerary will be easy, with some hills and rough spots. Highlights include a view from Wiccopee Ridge, and we'll take a long break at beautiful Beaver Pond.

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March 2009

3/1 (Sun) ANTHONY'S NOSE / HUDSON HIGHLANDS STATE PARK (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). This hike will take us through the southern part of Hudson Highlands State Park, in New York’s Putnam County. Included is a superb view of the Hudson River from 900-foot Anthony's Nose, highest mountain in the area, and we'll be hiking there via a scenic 5-mile section of the Appalachian Trail. There are some short, relatively steep and rocky climbs.

3/8 (Sun) HOOK MOUNTAIN – Hook Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (12 miles). Today we’ll be doing a loop-hike over rugged Hook Mountain, on the west side of the Hudson River about 25 miles north of NYC. Included are some splendid views overlooking the Hudson. The highest elevation here is only 728 feet, but the mountain features vertical cliffs and rock walls, and the trail, while not precipitous, includes many ups and downs. Our final few miles will be on a much easier path alongside the river.

3/14 (Sat) JOHN ALLEN POND / FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK (New York). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). NY's Fahnestock State Park is a large and attractive park in Putnam County. The hilly and rocky terrain includes high ridges and ravines, hardwood forests and hemlock groves -- and lovely John Allen Pond, one of several beautiful lakes and ponds. Our hiking route includes many hills but no major elevation changes.

3/15 (Sun) BLACK RIVER / HACKLEBARNEY STATE PARK (New Jersey). EASY HIKE (5-6 miles). Join us as we hike alongside the beautiful tea-colored Black River, which flows through a rugged gorge in northern New Jersey's Hacklebarney State Park. Some of the trail by the river is rough and rocky; the rest of the hiking is hilly but easy.

3/21 (Sat) DEVIL'S DEN PRESERVE (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (6 miles). For today's hike we'll be visiting wild and beautiful Devil's Den Preserve, which is the largest undeveloped area in southwestern Connecticut, and it's laced by 20 miles of scenic hiking trails. Highlights include lake-sized Godfrey Pond and Ambler Gorge, a rocky ravine with a stream. It's easy walking with some hills and occasional rough spots.

3/22 (Sun) MOMBASHA HIGH POINT / FITZGERALD FALLS (New York). MODERATE HIKE (9 miles). On this hike we'll follow some 9 miles of the Appalachian Trail through the wild and scenic mountains northeast of Greenwood Lake. There are fine views from Mombasha High Point (1,262 ft.) and Cat Rocks, and we'll stop at lovely 25-foot Fitzgerald Falls. Included are ups and downs over rocky trail.

3/28 (Sat) PRYDDEN BROOK FALLS / HOOSATONIC RIVER - Paugussett State Forest (Connecticut). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6-7 miles). On this outing we'll be hiking along one of the wildest, most undeveloped stretches of the Housatonic River in southwestern Connecticut, crossing several streams, spending some time at impressive Prydden Brook Falls, and rarely losing sight of the beautiful river. Terrain is hilly and occasionally steep.

3/29 (Sun) STORM KING MOUNTAIN, Storm King State Park (New York). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (6-8 miles). Perched more than 1,300 feet above the Hudson River, Storm King Mountain offers some of the most dramatic views of any location along the Hudson. The hiking trails here include rough, rocky, and steep stretches. Our total ascent and descent will be over 2,000 feet. Expect some terrific vistas. Recommended for experienced and fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably brisk pace (when appropriate).

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April 2009

4/4 (Sat) TEN MILE RIVER / HOUSATONIC RIVER (Connecticut). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). This hike, which premiered last spring, features a splendid stretch of the Appalachian Trail alongside the Housatonic and Ten Mile rivers, where the two scenic rivers meet near the New York border. We’ll have lunch by the Housatonic, which includes some rough rapids, and get there by traversing steep Ten Mile Hill, where we’ll enjoy a couple of nice vistas. Total elevation gain and loss today is around 1,500 feet.

4/5 (Sun) GREAT LEDGE / DEVIL’S DEN PRESERVE (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (7 miles). New hike! For many years we’ve offered an easy hike in the Nature Conservancy’s beautiful 1,700-acre Devil’s Den Preserve, which is said to be the largest undeveloped area in southwestern Connecticut. This new hike follows a different itinerary that will take us to the Great Ledge, a rock formation offering a wonderfully scenic vista. We’ll also stop at a couple of lovely mountain streams. The terrain is hilly but elevation changes are minor.

4/11 (Sat) SHEPAUG RIVER - Steep Rock Reservation (Connecticut). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Steep Rock is a lovely "unknown" preserve in western Connecticut, and through it runs the wild and scenic Shepaug River. We'll be following an easy (but occasionally rough and rocky) hiking trail alongside the river, with one short, steep climb to a wonderful viewpoint overlooking the area.

4/12 (Sun) WAWAYANDA MOUNTAIN – Wawayanda State Park (New Jersey). MODERATE HIKE (10 miles). For many years we’ve offered easy and easy-moderate hikes in this northern New Jersey park, and last year we premiered our first moderate one here, which we’ll be repeating today. Following the famous Appalachian Trail, we’ll have a rocky 800-foot trail-climb of Wawayanda Mountain, which offers a couple of fine vistas. The rest is mostly gently hilly terrain that includes a beautiful hemlock ravine with a stream.

4/18 (Sat) HOUSATONIC RAPIDS (Connecticut). EASY-MODERATE HIKE (6 miles). New hike! This is a shorter, easier version of our new "Ten Mile River/ Housatonic River" hike (offered this year on 4/4 -- today we’ll hike in from the opposite direction). There’s one rather steep 700-foot trail-climb to a nice mountain vista, and the rest is bumpy but easy. The highlight is a gorgeous stretch of trail alongside the Housatonic River (lots of rapids here) and the Ten Mile River, and we’ll take rest breaks by the water.

4/19 (Sun) RACE BROOK FALLS / SAGES RAVINE (Massachusetts / Connecticut). MODERATE-STRENUOUS HIKE (9 miles). In the unusually beautiful and unspoiled Taconic Mountains (MA/CT border), this hike starts with a very steep but extremely scenic climb up past Race Brook Falls (5 separate high falls), and continues to the top of Mt. Race (2,365 ft.) for some great views. Recommended for experienced and especially fit hikers who are capable of maintaining a reasonably fast pace (when appropriate).

4/25 (Sat) SHELDON FALLS / PETERS KILL CREEK - Minnewaska State Park (New York). EASY HIKE (5 miles). Peters Kill is a spectacular mountain creek with small waterfalls and cascades -- and several larger ones -- running through a rugged Shawangunk mountain gorge. Elevation changes are minor, aside from a couple of steep inclines, but some of the trail is quite rough and rocky, and today's hiking itinerary includes some bushwhacking (off-trail travel).

4/26 (Sun) SCHUNEMUNK MOUNTAIN - Schunemunk Mountain State Park (New York). MODERATE HIKE (8 miles). Eight-mile-long Schunemunk Mountain (1,664 ft.) is one of the most scenic mountains in the area -- and now a major portion of the mountain comprises one of New York's newest state parks. After a fairly steep climb via trail we'll be following a circular hiking route that takes us along two ridges, with wonderful views from rocky shelves and cliffs.

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2008 Overnight Trip Schedule

5/23-26 (Fri-Mon) CATSKILLS WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Catskill Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. For the first time in many years we’ll be spending Memorial Day Weekend in the 700,000-acre Catskill Park in upstate New York, and the Catskills couldn’t be lovelier than they are in late spring. We'll be walking in with backpacks 2-3 mostly easy miles (some of it off-trail) to camp near the beautiful Neversink River, southwest of Slide Mountain, in the largest wilderness area in the Catskills, and taking (optional) day hikes from there. Some easy hiking is available by the river, and for more experienced and fit hikers, there are also moderate or moderate-strenuous hikes available to the summits of nearby mountains for some terrific vistas -- among them Slide Mountain (4,180 ft., highest in the Catskills), which involves an elevation gain of 2,000 feet -- as well as Table Mountain (3847 ft.) and Peekamoose Mountain (3,843 ft). Another available daytime option is relaxing by the river. Departure will be early Friday am, return by Monday evening. If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 2/25/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra charge for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Catskills). Fee for members: $395 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $195). Non-members: $495 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295).

7/3-7/6 (Thurs-Sun) BIG MOOSE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Join us for 4 days over July 4th weekend in the splendid 50,000-acre wilderness area southeast of huge and famous Big Moose Lake, in the western Adirondacks -- a place of small mountains and no fewer than 64 lovely lakes and ponds, in some of the wildest and most spectacular country of the eastern U.S. -- but this area is visited far less frequently than many better-known wilderness areas. We’ll be walking in 3-5 miles with backpacks over mostly easy but very hilly trails to camp near one of the lakes, and then taking easy to moderate day hikes each day, all of which are optional. You could also choose to spend one or more days relaxing by the lake. Great swimming is available each day! Departure will be early Thursday morning and we’ll return Sunday evening. Cash refunds are not available after 4/3/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondack Park). Fee for members: $395 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $195). Non-members: $495 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295).

7/30-8/6 (Wed-Wed) WEST CANADA LAKES WILDERNESS BACKPACKING TRIP - Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. Time for another week-long trip on the Northville-Placid Trail (!) -- our second year in a row -- due to the “popular demand” of our 2007 participants, who had an altogether great time. Plan now to be with us as we visit another remote and splendid area of the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park, which is as large as the state of Vermont and has scenery as wild and lovely as anywhere in the East. On this 8-day trip we'll be traversing the West Canada Lakes Wilderness on foot with backpacks, hiking 38 roadless miles of the 130-mile Northville-Placid Trail through the south-central Adirondacks, averaging a few miles a day (with additional hiking options available for more ambitious participants). During the week we’ll be passing at least 9 gorgeous lakes and ponds, several of which we’ll camp next to. Most of the trail is easy but there are hills and occasional rough spots, and depending on this year's weather, some of it could be muddy. Unlimited swimming is available! Reserving early is highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Departure will be early Wednesday morning (7/30), and we’ll return the following Wednesday (8/6). If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 5/1/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $650 (Member-driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $295). Non-members: $750 (Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from Manhattan: $395).

8/29-9/1 (Fri-Mon) ROCK POND / NORTHERN PHARAOH LAKE WILDERNESS CAMPING TRIP – Adirondack Park (New York). EASY-MODERATE. 4 days. Be with us for an end-of-summer mini-vacation on Labor Day Weekend as we return to the magnificent but relatively little-known Pharaoh Lake Wilderness in the mountains of the southeastern Adirondacks, which has scenery as wild and lovely as any location in the Northeast. We'll be hiking in 4-5 easy but hilly miles to camp near Rock Pond, a scenic mountain lake with slabs of rock that slope into the water and offer perfect swim spots, and there’s a trail that completely encircles the lake. Easy to moderate hiking options here include trips to several other lakes and an 830-foot climb of Treadway Mountain (2,240 ft.) for some impressive panoramic views. As always, other options here include swimming and/or spending one or more days relaxing at the lake. Departure will be early Saturday am, return Monday evening (Labor Day). If you need to cancel, cash refunds are not available after 5/30/08, and credit for future trips is possible only if your space can be filled. Group size is limited to 9 people, and early reservations are highly recommended. Calls or e-mails to check on space are welcome up to the time of the trip. Transportation from NYC is available at no extra cost for those who need it (or you may meet us in the Adirondacks). Fee for members: $395 / Member-driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $195. Non-members: $495 / Non-member driver with car who can take passengers from NYC: $295.

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