When Taking a Hike Don’t Forget The Catskills

In Central New York we often only think of the Adirondacks when we ponder mountains, leaf-peeping, and hiking. But there's a lot more in the Empire State to consider, like the Catskills. The Department of Environmental Conservation is making sure we at least think about them, with 8 Guided Hikes this fall.

The DEC and Governor Cuomo created the program, "Hike With Us - Catskills." The hikes are considered beginner level and range from two to six miles. If you want to make it an entire day or weekend adventure, packages have been put together for after the guided hike. It includes attractions, dinner options, and lodging.  Here are the dates and locations:

Saturday, September 7 - Cabot Mountain Lookout
Saturday, September 7 - Alder Lake
Saturday, September 7 - North South Lake Ashley Falls Loop
Saturday, September 14 - Onteora Lake
Saturday, September 21 - Vernooy Kill Falls
Saturday, October 19 - North Point
Saturday, October 26 - Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
Saturday, October 26 - Trout Pond

The hikes are all free, but space is limited and the DEC encourages you to book early. Reserve a spot and get more information on each hike at the DEC's website.

SOURCE: Department of Environmental Conservation