Step Outside - New York WELCOME TO STEP OUTSIDE! Find the best outdoor fun near you! en-us 30 http://devel1.stepoutside.org/ Step Outside - New York 144 144 http://devel1.stepoutside.org/ https://cdn-step.americantowns.com/img/stepoutside_logo.gif Fri, 05 Dec 2025 15:50:30 -0600 10 Best Apres Ski Activities in New York The fun doesn't end after you finish up on the slopes for the day. That's where apres ski activities come in. The areas surrounding Whiteface Mountain in Lake Placid and Holiday Valley in Ellicottville offer endless post-ski excitement. From trying your hand at bobsledding to unwinding with a massage, here are the best apres ski activities in New York! 

Lake Placid, a famous Olympic location, gives you the opportunity to feel what it would be like to be in the games. Their bobsledding experience lets you ride with a professional driver and brakeman as you wind your way through Olympic twists and turns, experiencing the track that athletes around the world know and love.

Top of the Park is open until midnight, and their top floor location provides you with spectacular views. They serve signature cocktails, spirits, and wines, and have a craft beer lineup that changes seasonally. Although their bartenders can make you any one of your favorite drinks, their specialties are unique to them. Enjoy cocktails like an Espresso Russian, Orange Blossom Martini, and Top’s Old Fashioned.

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Smoke Signals has gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan options available, making this the perfect spot for the whole crowd. Their menu features homemade starters, like Korean BBQ mini tacos and signature rib nachos; award-winning wings in six different flavors; and (of course) BBQ classics like beef brisket, pulled pork, baby back ribs, and brisket burnt ends.

If you’re an active soul, you’ll want to keep the momentum going after hopping off the trails. There’s no better way to do so than to try out fat tire biking. There are many notable trails in Lake Placid, however a popular winter spot is on the shore of Lake Placid on the Brewster Peninsula Trails. Rentals, guides, and information are all available at High Peaks Cyclery where you can choose from half-day, full-day, or two-day options. Glide through the snowy trails with ease and enjoy the scenes all around you.

The spa at Whiteface Lodge is the perfect spot to relax and unwind if your muscles are feeling tight after a day of activity. Condé Nast Traveler ranked them as one of the Top 100 Spas in North America, and the spa’s blend of rustic beauty and serene ambiance live up to the title. Three luxurious spa packages are available for you to choose from: Rustic Romance, Spa Escape, and Ultimate Luxury. 

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Holiday Valley Ski Resort has a snow tubing park with 22 lanes, three of which are group lanes. This activity allows you to enjoy the snow while giving your feet and arms a break—all you have to do is sit down and hang tight. Their brand-new conveyor lift brings you back up the hill, so there’s no need to worry about going down 900-foot lanes (at a 100-foot vertical drop) and having to trek all the way back.

Ellicottville is the flagship location for the Ellicottville Brewing Co. As such, it’s home to their brewery—which means you can head down after a day on the slopes, tour the facility, and knock back a few drinks with some friends. Their tours can accommodate any size group, and you’ll get the chance to see the behind-the-scenes operations. Ellicottville Brewing Co. has a selection of seasonal bottles for you to try, too!

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Balloons is Ellicottville’s only night club. They have a new line-up every week and a calendar on their website, so you can check ahead to see who’s playing when you’ll be in town! Balloons has a selection of food and drink for you to have alongside the show, including options like Buffalo-style wings, Bavarian pretzels, tacos, flatbread pizzas, and poutine (potatoes fried to perfection cloaked in gravy, fresh mozzarella, and cheese curd).

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Ready for some horseback riding through the wintery fields? About 10 miles from Holiday Valley you’ll find this horse ranch in the town of Salamanca. The amazing people at the Crosspatch, Jim and Dolly Little, have been in the horse business for over 40 years and put all of their focus into helping people achieve their horse-riding dreams! They have plenty of options all lead by local guides like the Pub ride, where you’ll ride a trusty stead to the beloved Little Valley spot Hughes Hotel for well-deserved drinks and grub after a day of skiing. Check out their options, call and make a reservation!

One of Holiday Valley Ski Resort’s big attractions that draws in people from all over the country is the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster. Operating Friday through Sunday in the winter season, you can zig and zag your way down the mountain. With a track over 4,800 feet long, and uphill and downhill portions, your adrenaline-junkie self will be giddy with excitement! After skiing down Holiday Valley’s trails, it’ll be nice to see the gorgeous mountainous views from a different perspective.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/10-best-apres-ski-activities-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/10-best-apres-ski-activities-in-new-york Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0600 5 Great Hiking Trails in New York Hiking is one of the purest adventures you can have, and it’s a fun way to keep kids entertained on a day trip or while camping. Whether you’re searching for an upstate hike in stunning wilderness or a Catskills adventure, New York can cater to your preference. Here are five great New York State hiking trails to tackle with the family.

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.

much love for mother nature

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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.

Most of the time, beauty lies in the simplest of things. 🗺🌲@ausable_chasm

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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.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-great-hiking-trails-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-great-hiking-trails-in-new-york Thu, 05 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Awesome Trail Running Spots in New York Running outside is a meditative experience for many, and New York is a wonderland for those who want to escape into nature during their workouts. Get a healthy dose of farms, lakes, hills, and wilderness on these popular trail running routes around the state.

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. 

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-awesome-trail-running-spots-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-awesome-trail-running-spots-in-new-york Tue, 03 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0500 ATV Off-Roading Adventure in Lewis County Riding your ATV through the Adirondacks is one of the most scenic experiences imaginable. The magnificent landscape and expansive space of the trail system in Lewis County will provide thrill-seekers hours of outdoor fun. With all there is to enjoy, it’s best to make a whole adventure of it. Enjoy a bite to eat and a place to rest your head after your exciting day on the trails at Lewis County. 

Before hitting the trails, fuel up with some caffeine at Café Z. This cozy, sun-filled coffee shop will make you want to linger a while with its tasty espressos and delectable pastry selection.

For ATV enthusiasts in New York State, there’s only one public trail system—the expansive Lewis County ATV Trail System in the Adirondacks. The 500-mile park provides hours of adrenaline rush-inducing, off-road adventures on wheels. Keep in mind, you must purchase a permit before you explore! This is an ATV enthusiast’s paradise. 

Tuckered out after a day on the ATV? Dinner at Ridgeview Inn Restaurant & Lounge is just what you need to unwind. With its high ceilings, expansive views, and a comfort-food menu, this Lowville restaurant is a sure crowd-pleaser.

This comfortable bed and breakfast opened in 2002 and has been a welcome spot for ATV and snowmobile riders ever since then. The rooms are quaint and cozy and will make you feel like you’re right at home. And in the morning? A full breakfast is included with your stay.  

This expansive deer hunting ranch is “where dreams become reality.” At Lowlands Whitetails, sportsmen get to hunt for buck weighing in at anywhere between 150-250 pounds—sometimes more! They have special tags for your deer carcass, and will also recommend a local meat processor and/or a local taxidermist.   

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/atv-off-roading-adventure-in-lewis-county http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/atv-off-roading-adventure-in-lewis-county Mon, 02 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Best State Park Campsites in the Northeast Camping in the Northeast (especially in the early fall!) is a bucket list item for avid campers, and if you’ve ever experienced it for yourself, it’s easy to see why. There’s something for everyone here, whether you love the cool, crisp air in the mountains or the shimmering coastline of the Atlantic. Take your gear to these five best state park campsites and experience the beauty and peace of the Northeast in the best possible way.

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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]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-state-park-campsites-in-the-northeast http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-state-park-campsites-in-the-northeast Sun, 01 Oct 2023 19:00:00 -0500 7 Best Motorsport Retailers in New York Hitting the trails on your ATV or dirt bike is messy, fun, and one of the most exhilarating ways to explore New York State. New to the sport or want to modify your off-roading vehicle? Check out these best seven motorsport and rental locations across New York! 

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.

Big little vacay adventures >> #DoGoodSummer #ridingdirty

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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.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/7-best-motorsport-retailers-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/7-best-motorsport-retailers-in-new-york Sat, 30 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Best Birdwatching Hikes in New York Watching rare and beautiful birds in the wild can be a truly awe-inspiring experience. New York is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with wilderness and nature preserves beckoning birds across the state. Here are five great birding hikes to discover in New York. 

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.

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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.

🕊

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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.

Name that bird #audubon #bird #trees🌳

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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.”

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-birdwatching-hikes-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-birdwatching-hikes-in-new-york Sat, 30 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Cool Spots for ATV Off-Roading in New York If you’re looking to get the adrenaline pumping, a muddy, heart-pounding, off-roading adventure fits the bill! New York State is home to some excellent extreme parks and trail systems to traverse all day long. Here are five great spots to start your off-roading journey in New York! 

New York State’s only legal public ATV trail system does not disappoint. Lewis County’s four-wheeler trails span 600 miles of wilderness. Permits are required and safety precautions are enforced.

Not quite ready to venture off on your own yet? Head to Whitehall for the renowned Adirondack ATV Tours. Exclusively featuring "top of the line Polaris RZRs," according to their website, you'll be riding in style. Book your tour today and explore tens of thousands of miles of off-roading trails.  

Over 60 trails of various levels make Mettowee Off Road Extreme Park an attractive option for ATV riders. The park allows camping and frequently hosts special events.

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When you become a member of this private motorsports club on Long Island, you’ll receive access to 13 acres of dirt bike and ATV tracks designed to improve speed and skills.

This family-friendly ATV park provides 70 miles of clearly marked trails in a lush natural setting. Camping is allowed and rules are enforced.

When she fights it, then warms up to, before finally accepting that #SAFTB

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*Note: Age restrictions, special licenses, and other requirements for off highway vehicles vary from state to state. Before heading out on your OHV, please consult your local regulations.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-cool-spots-for-atv-off-roading-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-cool-spots-for-atv-off-roading-in-new-york Sun, 24 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Best Dirt Motorcycle Trails in New York Experience the great outdoors on a dirt bike track or trail in New York. Whether you’re a beginner looking for riding tips, a seasoned woods enthusiast, or an avid racer, New York State has plenty of motocross and dirt biking facilities to choose from. Ranging from private tracks in the Hudson Valley to sports centers with regularly-scheduled races, here are the five best dirt biking trails in the state. 

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.

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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.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-dirt-motorcycle-trails-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-best-dirt-motorcycle-trails-in-new-york Sun, 24 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Energizing Hikes in New York If you’re an experienced hiker, climbing a challenging mountain trail is a great way to get more exercise. New York State has plenty of moderate hikes to energize and invigorate your mind, body, and soul. Here are our favorites. 

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. 

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-energizing-hikes-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-energizing-hikes-in-new-york Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 SPOTLIGHT: S&S Taxidermy Archery Pro Shop http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/spotlight-ss-taxidermy-archery-pro-shop http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/spotlight-ss-taxidermy-archery-pro-shop Sat, 09 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Exhilarating Jet Skiing Spots in New York Wind, waves, and water—jet-skiing is the ultimate summer adrenaline rush, and with New York State’s diverse waterways, it’s hard to pick the best spot to go. For some of the most scenic beauty and one of the most thrilling rides of your life, New York State will bring you the best. Here are five exhilarating jet skiing areas to check out first.

Lake George has been an excellent watersports destination for generations. The gorgeous lake is home to marinas like Chic’s Marina that give lessons and rent jet-skis for your enjoyment. Rates go at $80 per half hour and $5 per additional passenger.  

It’s hard to imagine a more glorious jet skiing view than New York City. Jetty Jumpers runs several excursions and tours, one of which includes the Coney Island Tour. The tour begins at Gerritsen Creek through Lower New York Bay, moves through Brighton Beach, and heads to Coney Island. Along the way, you’ll see Jamaica Bay, Manhattan Beach, the Coney Island Boardwalk, and more! 

Those looking for a thrill out on the waters of Lake Ontario or Irondequoit Bay need look no further than Southpoint Marina & Pool Club, which rents jet skis by the hour. Some rates include $129 for one hour, $169 for 1.5 hours, and $228 for two hours.  

The fork of Long Island is the dividing line between the Atlantic Ocean and the Long Island Sound, with Peconic Bay and Gardiners Bay filling the middle. Places like Peconic Water Sports and East End Jet Ski serve the adventurous at heart. Check out these spots for great rental rates! 

This calm, narrow Finger Lake is great for boating and jet skiing. Keuka Watersports, located at the southern tip of the lake in Hammondsport, sells and rents jet skis and other motorized and non-motorized watercraft.

]]> Steve Collender/Shutterstock.com http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-exhilarating-jet-skiing-spots-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-exhilarating-jet-skiing-spots-in-new-york Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Beautiful Scenic Hikes in New York When it comes to scenic hiking trails, New York State offers explorers some of the best. In New York, you’ll find a wealth of diversity and stunning terrain. Whether you’re headed up to the Finger Lakes region or you’re just looking to escape the city for a few hours, there’s an immaculate sight close by. Here are five hikes in New York State that will reward you with stunning views from start to finish.

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.

]]> Haye Kesteloo/Shutterstock.com http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-beautiful-scenic-hikes-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-beautiful-scenic-hikes-in-new-york Fri, 08 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 Best Places to Fish in the East This Fall A smorgasbord of baitfish is served up to striped bass in the fall as they make their way south along the Atlantic coast from Maine to their wintering waters in the mid-Atlantic.

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

10 Best Bass Waters Off the Beaten Path

Field Care and Dressing of Fish

]]> Photograph Courtesy of Maine Office of Tourism The classic approach to surf fishing is still a great way to take advantage of the striper run along the Atlantic coast. http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/best-places-to-fish-in-the-east-this-fall http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/best-places-to-fish-in-the-east-this-fall Tue, 05 Sep 2023 19:00:00 -0500 5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in New York With its unique, impressive rock formations, New York State is home to some of the finest rock climbing spots on the East Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or you’re just starting out, there’s something in the state for you. Here are five cool spots to go climbing in New York.

Nicknamed “the Gunks,” this section of the Shawangunk Mountains has some of the best climbing on the East Coast.  It’s only two hours away from New York City, conveniently located in New Paltz. To get to the bouldering spot, hike the West Trapps Trailhead.

Poke-O-Moonshine is the finest rock climbing spot in the Adirondacks. Its cliffs are separated into three areas: the main wall, the slab, and the upper tiers. All three routes are rated as very challenging and should be avoided by novice climbers.

A steep rock slab jutting out of the waters of Lake George, Rogers Rock is imposing and impressive. The 5.6 climb can only be accessed by boat, which makes for a beautiful start and end to the activity.

The Spider’s Web is one of the most unique rock climbing destinations in the Northeast, with an intricate web-like pattern on the rock face and an angle that minimizes the crag’s exposure to the elements. To access Spider’s Web, hike up to it from Chapel Pond for 15 minutes.

The tallest cliff in New York, Wallface’s steep drop off is intimidating, but worth the climb. To get there, you have to hike for three hours from the car to the base, passing an abandoned village and streams along the way.

]]> http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-cool-rock-climbing-spots-in-new-york http://devel1.stepoutside.org/article/5-cool-rock-climbing-spots-in-new-york Thu, 31 Aug 2023 19:00:00 -0500