
What we’re about
We are primarily a group of day-hikers from the Metropolitan New York area (NJ/NY/PA). We hike weekly on over 80 hiking trails within a 60-minute driving radius of our area. We are mostly older hikers (50+), but we welcome adults of all ages, singles, and couples. Our hikes are moderate, typically 5-7 miles-long, with an elevation gain in the range of 750-1,500 feet, and are mostly on trails located in Southern New York and Northern New Jersey. We hike every weekend (Saturday and/or Sunday), and often have additional mid-week hikes.
Most of our hikes do not require prior experience but do require a reasonable level of fitness, and appropriate gear such as hiking boots. Many of our members are seasoned, regular hikers with a wealth of experience and advice for new hikers.Because most of our hikes are in the wilderness where trailheads are only accessible by car, our group works best for those with a car. We do organize several urban hikes (walks) in New York City every year, as well as several regional hikes in the wilderness that are accessible by public transit.
We occasionally organize hiking trips outside our area, typically to National Parks and to other “destination” hiking areas.
We also organize seasonal moonlight-hiking, biking, kayaking, and social outdoor events such as picnics.
All our events are free (except for charges imposed by third parties at special events).
“The mountains are calling, and I must go…” (John Muir, 1923).
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Cold Spring - Bull Hill Full Loop 5+ MilesParking lot , Cold Spring, NY
Bull Hill - full loop.
5.5 miles, 1400 feet elevation. Strenuous hike at a moderate pace. Hiking time 3.5 hours.Details: The hike starts with an invigorating early climb. About 90% of the elevation happens in the first hour, with a steady ascent up the Washburn Trail (white trail) past a former quarry. It includes great views of Storm King and the Thayer Hotel at West Point.
After the Mt Taurus summit, the route levels out before beginning a gradual descent on the Brook Trail (blue trail). We will pass a few century-old ruins along the Cornish Trail. The Cornish Trail itself is an abandoned road that leads directly back to the parking lot, an easy 30 minutes.
The hike includes one short and simple rock scramble of about 20 feet.
Lets meet at 8:15 as there is limited parking.Bring plenty of water and snacks, and appropriate seasonal items (sun- and insect-protection in summer, and crampons in winter). Day-of-hike-only phone: 914-672-5156
**Note** We hike at a moderate pace, and never leave anyone behind. Our hikes are not suitable for fast hikers who like to forge ahead of the group.
**To join our hikes, you must enable Meetup messaging with organizers (see "New to hiking" link below), and must post a profile image that can be used to recognize you. If you do not, you may be removed from Going list.
**By signing up for this event you are acknowledging that you have read and accepted the posted NJO legal disclaimer: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/emigr7kcfcjw2g3tq4kib/NJO-Legal-Disclaimer.docx?rlkey=3e3i9wpx3t28m0f4st018wloa&dl=0
**NJO policies to discourage "repeat no-shows", "repeat late-cancels" (canceling <48 hours before hike), or "Frivolous RSVPs". For details, see: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2gihwj37j7ltjvfyywgle/NJO-Policies.docx?rlkey=khddp9ns3ioxswkopgyzixeds&dl=0
This is your only notice - if you find yourself removed from the Going or Waiting List, refer to document above. You may message hike leader to reinstate you, but no guarantees!
** New to hiking or Meetup? Try: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vcezsno68166y4h79t1m4/New-Hiker-Guide.docx?rlkey=0g0cfyccgj66gq4si52thp4hh&dl=0