Here’s how to prevent and treat hiking blisters for real—with essential pointers on footwear, blister prevention, and treatment strategies for pain-free days on the trail. Whether you’re breaking in a new pair of boots or just half way through a big day, blisters can turn a great hike into a painful ordeal. But fear not. With the right knowledge and a few simple strategies, you can prevent blisters from dinging your adventures. From choosing the right footwear to proper hiking blister treatment, I’ve got you covered. Grab your gear and let’s hit the trail blister-free! Understanding Blister Fo ..read more

Monument Mountain in Great Barrington, MA, is one of the Berkshires’ most beloved landmarks. Its knife-edge summit offers spectacular views of the Housatonic River Valley below, as well as the Devil’s Pulpit, The Taconics, and The Catskills. This route begins at the base, and leads in you in a loop through dense forests and rocky trails that reveal glimpses of the region’s vibrant past. The trail takes you over the summit of Peeskawso Peak, named to honor the area’s Mohican heritage, where sweeping views of the Berkshires and beyond unfold in breathtaking fashion. From the summit of Peeskawso ..read more

Nestled in the heart of Point Reyes National Seashore, the Tomales Point Trail offers more than just a hike—it’s a journey through the dazzling landscape and rich history of the San Francisco Bay Area. Tomales Point Trail, stretching out towards the northern tip of the Point Reyes Peninsula, is not only a haven for hikers but also a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, offering glimpses of nature’s marvels in their most unadulterated form. The Tomales Point Trail is renowned for its tule elk reserve, an initiative that has successfully reintroduced these majestic creatures to their native habit ..read more

The hike to Wittenberg and Cornell is long and tiring but intensely rewarding. This out-and-back route mixes steep trail and tricky scrambles with some of the remotest and most beautiful Catskill wilderness. The first part of the hike is a mix of steep and gentle grades until you get to 2250’ when the trail levels out for a while. Follow the red-blazed trail. It’s a long hike in to the first junction but, along the way, you’ll hike through beautiful forest and pass many dramatic rock outcroppings. You’ll see why this is such a popular hike. Lots of hemlock and pine. Lots of dappled light. Some ..read more

Welcome to Falling Waters Preserve, a delightful Scenic Hudson park that’s all about the simple joys of being outside. Right on the Hudson River, this place is a great spot for anyone looking to take an easy walk through some beautiful landscapes without going too far off the beaten path. The preserve features a mix of trails that’ll take you through woods, meadows, and right up to some peaceful spots along the riverbank. It’s the kind of place where you can really take it easy, enjoy the views, and maybe even spot some local wildlife. What makes Falling Waters Preserve stand out are its water ..read more

The deeply lovely route to Overlook Mountain from Platte Clove brings you through some of the Catskills’ most beautiful terrain. The trail from Platte Clove is a showcase of the region’s natural beauty, characterized by its deep ravines and rich, forested areas. As you walk, you’ll encounter peaceful streams and woods, offering a quiet, natural setting that enhances the hiking experienced. This hike, known for its length rather than its difficulty, is ideal for those who enjoy a good day’s walk in nature. The gentle inclines and well-trodden paths make it accessible for various skill levels. T ..read more

The Overlook mountain fire tower trail is short, easy, and packs a ton of punch: atmospheric hotel ruins, a beautiful ledge with historic carvings, and the best fire tower view in the Catskills—and you can do it all in 3 hours! The views from Overlook Mountain’s Fire Tower are exceptional at any time of day, but sunrise adds real magic. The first rays of the day hitting early morning mists down on the Hudson River are magical, and the rising sun brings the surrounding mountains and valleys into otherworldly relief. Several lakes and the Ashokan reservoir shimmer purple, gold and white.&nb ..read more

Ticetonyk is steep. This route uses a well-blazed trail to get started, and then plots a bushwhack route to some old woods roads which connect with a herd path that runs directly up the ridge to the summit. This is a fun and challenging short hike, through extremely varied terrain. Strong backcountry navigations skills are required. Waterproofs boots are highly recommended. Ticetonyk is a lower Catskill peak in the Phoenicia/Mt. Tobias Wild Forest near Mount Tremper and Mount Tobias. You might also enjoy… Updated › How to Winter Hike: The Essential Roundup Challenge › The Harde ..read more

Embark on a historic and visually stunning journey up Mount Chocorua via the Piper Trail, one of the most celebrated paths in New Hampshire’s White Mountains.  This popular trail, renowned for its extensive stretches of open ledges, offers hikers not only a challenging ascent but also unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. Accompanied by a captivating gallery of over 35 high-quality images, this guide is designed to bring the trail’s beauty and the exhilarating experience of reaching Chocorua’s summit to life. The Piper Trail weaves through dense, whispering forests and across c ..read more

Poets’ Walk is an enchanting park and loop trail, a serene landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Welcome to Poets’ Walk, near Red Hook in Dutchess County, a scenic sanctuary nestled along the majestic Hudson River. As you meander along its winding paths, bordered by lush woods and sweeping river vistas, you’ll find yourself walking in the footsteps of literary giants who once sought solace and inspiration here. Poets’ Walk is more than just a trail; it’s a tribute to the romantic era of literature, where nature was the muse for timeless poetry and art. In 1849, the Astor ..read more