Orange County Tourism Says: Hike Orange County NY this Fall!

  |  September 21, 2017
Hike Orange County NY

Schunnemunk Mountain State Park via nynjtc.org

If you’ve been eschewing the mid-to-lower Hudson Valley in order to hike in the Catskills…knock it off! Orange County Tourism is encouraging folks to hike Orange County NY this fall, and a recent press release enumerated the miles upon miles of trails around Orange County, including portions of the Appalachian Trail (founded in Bear Mountain State Park!), as well as dozens of other parks, preserves and trails located throughout the county.

Need a place to start? Here are some suggestions from Orange County Tourism:

“Sterling Forest State Park: Features hikes of varying lengths and difficulties with a focus on iron mining history and nature. Enjoy guided hikes and lectures on select weekends with www.friendsofsterlingforest.org. A beautiful visitor’s center is on site for guidance.https://www.palisadesparksconservancy.org/park_detail.php?park_id=18

Schunnemunk Mountain State Park: Boasting the tallest mountain in Orange County and scenic vistas, this one is recommended for more avid conditioned hikers. https://parks.ny.gov/parks/184/hunting.aspx

Stewart State Forest: Easy hikes on flat terrain can be found here. Its gravel roads are also perfect for mountain bikes. Plus, there’s the new Great Swamp Boardwalk! http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/50095.html

Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Trails at the Outdoor Discovery Center: Short trails, ideal for families with children, meander through different eco systems. The trails also connect to some Black Rock Forest Trails for those wanting more of the great outdoors. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/587501b89f7456c5d579c54a/t/59a6f2b8a9db09c270b67d98/1504113340170/HHNM+trail+map+with+Mckeon+loop+trail.pdf

Delaware River Heritage Trail:  Walk through city streets to famous landmarks taking in the history of Port Jervis and nature along the way. Highlights include Laurel Grove Cemetery and the Tri-States Monument.  http://minisink.org/trail.html“.

Find out more about outdoor recreation in Orange County by visiting  www.orangetourism.org. Do you love the hike Orange County NY? Tell us your favorite spots in the comments!

 

About Kandy Harris

Kandy is a writer and musician/music teacher living in Saugerties, NY.

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