This beautiful loop in the Finger Lakes region follows a striking river gorge with steep cliffs and 19 waterfalls along the way. Described as a magical experience, hikers on this 2.5-mile trail are immersed in a world of steep stone, rushing water, and lush greenery.
Just a Metro-North train ride from Manhattan, Breakneck Ridge is considered one of the more challenging hikes in the Hudson Valley. After a few hours of steep rock scrambles, you’ll reach the top, which has a flagpole and dramatic views of the Hudson River and the Hudson Highlands.
With stone staircases and an elevation of 3,352 feet, this challenging Adirondacks hike has some of the best views to be seen in New York State. At the end of the nearly-three-mile hike, adventurers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Adirondack mountains and the Saranac lakes.
A 1.7-mile stone path, the Gorge Trail is ideal for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike. After a few steep stair climbs, hikers enjoy prime views of the impressive Buttermilk Falls and Buttermilk Creek.
About an hour’s drive upstate from New York City, Bear Mountain State Park provides climbers with a moderate hike that affords views of the rolling Hudson Highlands, the Bear Mountain Bridge, some serene lakes, and the majestic Hudson River.
]]>Trace the edge of Buttermilk Falls on its half mile Gorge Trail, which affords gorgeous, sweeping views. The park has a few smaller trails, plus a lake and a swimming area. Camping there is easy and encouraged.
Adventurous families with kids over age eight will love the “Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks.” Ausable Chasm leads two thrilling tours every day, in which hikers wear harnesses and are secured by cables as they traverse bridges, nets, and steep precipices.
Grab the kids, pack a picnic, and head to Kaaterskill Falls, where an easy one-mile hike affords up-close views of New York’s tallest two-tier waterfall and light swimming opportunities along the way up. The falls area can get crowded, but it’s definitely worth checking out.
Dramatic, pristine, and beautiful, Watkins Glen is an absolute must-see in the Finger Lakes region. The Gorge Trail is less than three miles long, but it boasts jaw-dropping views of cliffs and waterfalls that leave a lasting impression. Camping is also available for those who want to explore more.
This state park is ideal for families. Stroller-aged kids and toddlers can take the flat, paved walk around Hessian Lake, while older kids might enjoy the more challenging hike up to Perkins Memorial Tower (which you can also drive to). Down at the bottom, there are plenty of activities to do, including a carousel and a zoo.
]]>A segment of the Appalachian Trail runs through Fahnestock State Park, making this woodsy, self-guided running trail a great place to lace up your running shoes.
Witness charming scenes of farm buildings and ponds along these dirt paths, which are ideal for trail runners in the Poughkeepsie area. There is the easy Farm Road trail, which is roughly 1.5 miles. The more moderate trails include Collin’s Trail, North Trail, Swain Trail, Wright Trail, and Davies Trail—all of which barely exceed one mile. For more of a challenge try the Drumlin Trail, Helen Johnson Woodworth Memorial Trail, or Quercus Trail.
Check out one of the roughly 46 miles of designated hiking trails at Minnewaska State Park. The trails stretch out around Lake Minnewaska. As you work out, you’ll also take in several gorgeous vistas. Running has never been so beautiful!
You’ll escape into nature when you run up Scarface Mountain, a densely-wooded trail in the Adirondacks. The roughly four-mile running path becomes steep and rocky as you ascend the mountain. This can take several hours to hike, so come prepared!
This portion of the Abbott Loop is a wonderful Ithaca-area trek. Abbott Loop East is 3.5 miles and moderately difficult. Along the way, you’ll soak in beautiful sights of the surrounding wilderness and cross a footbridge over a stream. This hike is considered to be a good running location.
]]>This private motocross club is devoted to the sport, frequently hosting races on its 75-acre property. There’s a three-mile motocross track, a peewee track, and a woods course.
Walden has been providing dirt bikers a racing space for over 50 years. The Hudson Valley dirt bike facility hosts motocross races on two tracks at the same time, which many other facilities do not do.
Proudly hosting motocross races, Broome Tioga Sports Center welcomes New York dirt bike riders to spectate, practice riding, or participate in the races themselves. There are three racing tracks, including a national track and a grass track for bigger races.
With a large main racing track, kids’ tracks, wooded trails, and beginner lessons, Area 51 is a destination for riders of all kinds in Western New York. Admission is $25 for visitors and $5 for members.
Ten miles of wooded trails make up this lush dirt biking and ATV-riding park. There are also campsites, RV parking areas, boat rentals, a swimming pool, and tennis and basketball courts.
]]>With a location so close to JFK Airport, you might not expect it, but this 9,000-acre refuge is one of the top birdwatching destinations in the East. More than 300 species of birds have been seen there, and walking permits for trails around the center’s two large ponds are free.
Dozens of duck species, geese, and other types of waterfowl occupy this wildlife refuge on the northern tip of Lake Cayuga. The wetlands are also home to six active bald eagle nests.
Over five miles of nature trails allow birding enthusiasts to view species like eastern bluebird, red-winged blackbird, and yellow warbler up close, and in close proximity you’ll find camping and hiking opportunities in Allegany State Park.
From March to May, Derby Hill becomes home to a spectacular number of hawks, eagles, and vultures, as well as scores of birdwatching enthusiasts. The birds migrate over Lake Ontario in spring, and Derby Hill is the point where they often turn east.
In the winter months, thousands of gulls feed on fish in Niagara Falls. Birdwatchers on each side of the majestic falls might spy Iceland gull, back-legged kittiwake, and more, earning it the nickname “Gull Capital of the World.”
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This upstate New York driving school teaches pupils how to navigate off-pavement conditions across its 68 natural acres in a Jeep or other four-by-four vehicle. Instructors are provided, and rentals and private lessons are available.
This Adirondack adventure tour company lets users drive a Polaris RZR ATV on a tour across its 170-acre wooded landscape. Training, guides, and safety features like roll cages are provided.
This full-service four-wheel drive retailer is dedicated to helping its customers amplify and modify their trucks. Promising “Your truck will be wild,” the shop sells lift kits, wheels, tires, and an array of other accessories.
Whatever you need to prep your vehicle for its off-roading adventure, WNY Accessory Shop likely has it in stock. From tires and winches to lift kits and various trailers, they’ll keep you riding comfortably.
If you want a custom truck in Western New York, Jim Dean’s is the shop to turn to. For over 30 years, they’ve earned a reputation for customer satisfaction with everything from repairs to modifications.
One of the best ways to explore Whiteface Mountain is by off-roading. Rent an all-terrain vehicle and join a one or two-hour tour of some of the most beautiful scenery in the Adirondacks.
Appolson’s offers a full range of off-roading vehicles from brands like Polaris, KYMCO, and Yamaha. They also service and repair the vehicles to keep them running smoothly.
]]>As New York’s highest peak, this Adirondack mountain trail should be on every hiker’s to-do list. Once you reach the 5,300-foot summit, enjoy panoramic views of all 46 high peaks and the sparkling lakes that dot the region.
In addition to its gorgeous lake, Lake George is home to the challenging-yet-rewarding Buck Mountain. A 5.8-mile loop trail will take you up 2,024 feet, with blueberries along the trail and breathtaking views at the top.
This moderately difficult hiking trail is often the first summit attempted by those trying to conquer all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondacks. Hikers climb (or rock-scramble) 4.8 miles to reach the top of this peak, which offers panoramic views you’ll never forget.
Although this mountain’s summit can be reached by car, the hike from the bottom is an invigorating pursuit. Follow the 3.2-mile trail along the old tramway until you reach the top—sights from there are especially pretty in the fall.
Located in Harriman State Park, the 6.6-mile Pine Meadow Trail is a moderate trek. At the end of the journey, hikers are afforded views of the 77-acre Pine Meadow Lake. This hike will get your heart pumping and treat you to serene scenic views when you’re finished.
]]>One of the most magnificent places in the eastern United States, Letchworth State Park is a sight to behold all year-round. With tumbling cliffs, some as high as 600 feet, 66 miles of hiking trails, and opportunity for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, the activities are endless.
Follow the popular Gorge Trail, which traces the Genesee throughout seven miles of the park. The hiking trail passes picturesque waterfalls and vistas like Inspiration Point, as well as several picnic areas.
Pause for a moment to get a bird’s eye view of the Genesee meandering through the gorge, complete with a hilly landscape on either side, a cascading waterfall, and a towering bridge above it all.
Letchworth State Park has over 250 campsites throughout the park with access to bathrooms, showers, firewood, and recreation like a swimming pool and volleyball courts. These sites are open from May to October. For the winter explorers, check out the cabin rentals. Visit the Reserve America website for more information about booking your charming rustic cabin.
Wealthy businessman William Pryor Letchworth fell in love with the land in the 19th century and bought it to establish an estate. Later in life, he donated a thousand acres of the land to the state for use as a natural preserve. The William Pryor Letchworth Museum contains a detailed history of the park as well as Native American artifacts from the industrialist’s personal collection.
The mouthwatering menu at Hole in the Wall will surely sate your appetite after some time spent working hard outdoors. This restaurant serves everything from home-style chicken and biscuits to an impressive beef on weck. Whatever you feel like, you’ll find something hearty and delicious at Hole in the Wall.
Now your belly is full and you’re ready to really unwind. Head to Amber Lantern Brewing in Warsaw, New York, for a delicious cold one. The extensive beer list features everything from “A Porter Has No Name,” described as a “velvety and rich,” “chocolate and coffee” porter, to the Saint Bernard, described as a “winter warmer,” “deeply malty and warming” made with orange peel and cinnamon. Delicious!
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If you’re into paddling and primitive camping, you’ll want to plan your next adventure here. The 92-mile waterway takes you along a middle-of-nowhere journey that’s nothing short of breathtaking. There are also tons of hiking trails to explore, along with old railroads and trains that make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
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The Genesee River and gorge create a beautiful backdrop for camping. In the fall, the bursts of bright orange, red, and yellow along the river gorge make the entire trip worthwhile. With river rafting and more than 66 miles of hiking trails, it’s no surprise this park has been voted the number one attraction in New York State.
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By far one of the most diverse parks in Connecticut, Rocky Neck is simply stunning year-round. The area is teeming with birds and other wildlife, which are best seen from the viewing platforms in the saltwater marsh. Beautiful beaches, saltwater fishing and swimming, camping, and hiking make this the perfect site for families.
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One of Vermont’s most visited parks, Little River is a destination for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. The site was once an early settlement that later become flooded, and you can still see the remnants of old saw mills, cemeteries, bridges, and other vestiges.
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Home of the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse, this state park remains a family favorite place to stay and play. Most notable are the miles of diverse hiking trails, including a challenging-yet-rewarding three-mile trek to the White Clay Cliffs that overlook the Chesapeake Bay.
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Camp with the kids right along the beach in Montauk. Hither Hills State Park has 190 camping spots that fill up fast, plus a nature preserve with a lake, playgrounds, walking trails, and ranger programs to keep the family entertained. Shower facilities are available but grills and cooking options are not.
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and with 66 miles of gorge-side trails, Letchworth State Park makes a stunning family getaway. The park has 257 campsites and also cabins for rent, plus a pool for the kids to splash around in.
Families who visit Cooperstown for the National Baseball Hall of Fame should consider a stay at Glimmerglass State Park. Once there, kids can head to the beach, hike nature trails, go geocaching, and more. Campsites include showers, picnic tables, grills, and fire pits.
Whether camping along the Ausable River or closer to the trails of Whiteface Mountain, families will find plenty to do at this Adirondacks campground. Amenities include two swimming pools, mini-golf, playgrounds, and laundry facilities.
With gorges, cliffs, and waterfalls, Watkins Glen is one of the most popular nature destinations in New York. The park’s KOA campground is a children’s paradise, with mini golf, outdoor movies, an indoor pool, laser tag, and a waterslide. It was previously voted as KOA campground of the year, and kids camp free in some sections.
]]>There’s no better place to RV camp on the beach than at Hither Hills Campground in Montauk. The 190-spot campground has its own two-mile stretch of white sandy beach, along with hiking trails, a 40-acre lake, historic cemeteries, and access to the bay on the north side.
Stay on a large, activity-filled island just seven miles away from the epic Niagara Falls. This RV campground offers everything from tours and fishing, to playgrounds and pools. The Maid of the Mist tour will pick you up directly from the campgrounds.
At Glimmerglass State Park on Otsego Lake, RV campers can escape into a series of wooded trails and frolic in the waters of the on-site beach. The campground is located close to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, and each site comes with its own grill, fire pit, and picnic table.
RV campers who seek seclusion should stay at Cranberry Lake Campground. This campground in the Adirondacks offers privacy to its patrons with trees separating most of the campsites. It is located near a 150,000-acre forest preserve that provides ample opportunity for hiking, swimming, and more.
Offering an optimal blend of activity, culture, and seclusion, this Lake George-area RV campground has it all. The site has a recreation hall, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a pool, shuffleboard, and bocce court for camper’s enjoyment. Lake George is just a 10-minute drive away, but the campground itself offers plenty of reasons to linger.
]]>Spanning the border between Vermont, Quebec, and the Adirondacks, this long, narrow upstate New York lake is both beautiful and bountiful. It’s a popular place to hook salmon, northern pike, trout, and more.
Clear Creek has over 5.5 miles of public fishing available and the creek is known for its bountiful fish populations. Expect to hook brown and rainbow trout here. The largest brown trout sampled here was 18.3 inches and the largest rainbow trout was 11.3 inches.
Lake Ontario is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the entire world. It is around 200 miles-long and stretches all the way from the Niagara River to the St. Lawrence River. Expect to find plenty of chinook, trout, bass, coho salmon, and walleye, among other great fish. This is truly a trophy fishing spot in New York State.
Divided into two sections by the Cannonsville Reservoir, the West Branch of the Delaware River is an optimal destination for snagging bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Upstream, the river is stocked with over 14,000 brown trout. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are just two types of fish that can be found in the warm waters of the Delaware.
With 106 miles of shoreline and 435 feet of depth, Cayuga Lake is the second largest of the Finger Lakes region. Expect to find a variation of fish here, including both warm and cold water species. Anglers can hook anything from lake trout and Atlantic salmon to channel catfish and lake sturgeon.
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From Bear Mountain to the Catskills, soak up all of the stunning sights of fall on these gorgeous foliage hikes in New York.
Low on battery on the trails? That could spell disaster. There’s always a chance that you could run into a less than ideal situation on the trails and if you do, you’re going to need your phone or GPS to resolve the situation. Keep your gadgets charged. Here’s how to do it.
In additon to a sturdy pair of boots, make sure you have the proper navigational tools, hydration, and maybe even some extra clothes in case of emergency.
Before you decide to go on any kind of hike, make sure you pick up a pair of sturdy, reliable, and comfortable hiking boots. You want a pair of shoes you can count on when the terrain gets rough.
New York’s awesome hiking retailers are ready to outfit you for any adventure. From Ithaca to NYC, pick up that great pair of hiking boots (along with jackets, trekking poles, backpacks, and more) at these first-rate retailers.
So now you’re interested in a little more of a challenge. We’ve narrowed down a selection of some of the best intermediate hikes available in New York. These will surely provide an invigorating experience.
]]>Taughannock Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York, and it’s right in the heart of the Finger Lakes! Nestled in a small town right next to Cayuga Lake, you can enjoy a scenic fall hike through the colorful foliage or head on up to the overlook and see the Falls in all its glory. There’s a gorge trail and a rim trail—perfect for whatever hiking mood you’re in—and you can enjoy a nice meal after your workout at the local Falls Restaurant and Tavern (just a short drive into town). And if you’re in the mood for some Italian, stop in at Little Venice, a locally-owned restaurant serving all your pizza and pasta desires.
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Buttermilk Falls is only a short 20-minute drive from Taughannock, if you feel like exploring more than one local gorge in a day! You can camp at Buttermilk’s lower park, where there’s a natural swimming area (that’s more for summer weather) and playing fields. Just beyond the fields is a nature trail, winding directly through the Larch Meadows wetland. Buttermilk also has gorge and rim trails available, as well as a small lake and picnic area at its upper park.
What would a camping/hiking excursion be without a trip to a local orchard? Located less than 10 miles away from Buttermilk, campers are able to head on down and pick up some fresh fruit for their weekend in the Finger Lakes! As a pick-your-own orchard, you’ll have the experience of plucking only your desired apples from the trees—and who can say no to some fresh apple cider and doughnuts? And if you’re like most and can’t resist a good wine tasting, be sure to check out the wine trail along Cayuga Lake (or Seneca Lake, or any Finger Lake if you don’t mind a bit of a drive)!
Head on east to Hudson, New York, and you’ll find the greatest jack o’-lantern event in the tri-state area. The display of jack o’-lanterns is set up along the historic, 18th century riverside and features displays like the Pumpkin Carousel and the Pumpkin Zee Bridge (shout-out to New York’s Tappan Zee Bridge). Dates for this year span from the end of September to the end of November, so there’s no risk of missing out on the 7,000 illuminated gourds!
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The Troy Waterfront Farmer’s Market is located in the heart of downtown Troy, right in the streets. Every Saturday from May through October, the roads around Monument Square are closed off for vendors and visitors to explore all the produce, coffee, baked goods, etc. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can enjoy everything the city of Troy has to offer. And while prime time is in the fall, don’t worry if you miss out! The market moves inside to the Troy Atrium from November to April, so you can still come check it out!
Hiking, hiking, and more hiking. Letchworth State Park is yet another beautiful location to view a lower, middle, and upper waterfall—one of which can create its own rainbow! Located in the Genesee Region, this park is often regarded as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” There are 66 miles worth of trails in the area that are available for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding!
This unique trail goes from Buffalo to Albany—perfect for a bike ride at peak foliage season! You can choose how far you decide to roam, and by watching New York’s foliage report, you can plan your trip around when the trees will be most colorful (giving your ride a magnificent fall atmosphere).
Starting in mid-September, Iron Kettle Farm becomes a perfect place for fall family activity! In addition to their spooktacular Halloween pumpkin display, they have a corn maze, hay ride, wagon ride, spook barn, pumpkin express train, pumpkin sling shot, and more! Plus, they even have a nice selection of small to gigantic pumpkins; so while you’re out enjoying a day of family bonding, you can pick some up to carve later at home!
During the fall at Harbes Family Farm, you can find their interactive corn maze and pumpkin patch. Actors bring the 1.5-acre maze to life with a story of how PumpkinLand’s King lost his crown, and you have to help him find all the pieces. There are riddles to solve throughout the maze, which you need to successfully navigate, along with winning a climactic sword fight. Good luck!
On this haunted hayride, you can cross a toxic swamp, meet the tortured souls of previous patients from Orchard Asylum, and feel like you’re part of the disturbed family that runs the butcher shop. Be careful, though, because you could end up being the next up for slaughter. Check out their site for more creepy attractions!
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Visit any of the gorgeous parks New York has to offer (Central Park included!) during prime foliage season to do a bit of leaf peeping. If you don’t like biking, no sweat! You can go on scenic drives through the local region, go for a walk/hike, or even take a boat out onto a lake—but make sure you’re close enough to shore to still see the trees! The foliage is beautiful throughout the state, so make sure you don’t miss out.
]]>Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.
Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.
Quick tip: The most successful anglers are those who spot gulls or other wheeling seabirds feeding on baitfish driven to the top by stripers and who then cast into the melee without dispersing the bass. From a boat, the trick is to approach schools carefully and take advantage of wind or tide to drift to within casting range. The stripers will stay up as long as the baitfish are hemmed against the surface.
Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish