With the first day of summer on June 20th, it’s time to plan for a few great summer get away hike’s.
Some of our favorite places have been taken off the list because of COVID-19 restrictions as they remain closed. Hiking trails continue to be one of the best ways to social distance and to stay physically active. It is recommended to verify the trail is open and park crowd control prior to visiting as status is continually updated.
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#4. Giant Stairs (NJ)
Located 30 minutes outside of NYC, Giant Stairs hike at Palisades Interstate Park is a great close getaway with views of the Hudson River. As the name stands, this is a medium-difficult, 3.7 mile, 1,000 feet hike well known for it’s big boulders and difficult terrain.
Visit the Official Palisades Interstate website for latest details.
#3. Ricketts Glen Falls Loop (PA)
Like any hike with waterfalls, catch this early in the summer before the water levels drop. This is a beautiful 6.6 mile, 1,000 foot hike featuring a total of 21 water falls along the path. Great place to go out on a hot summer day and cool off by the water on a easy-moderate hike.
Visit the Official Ricketts Glen website for latest details.
#2. Sam’s Point Ice Caves (NY)
For those hot summer days late in the summer, Sam’s Point Ice Caves is a short 3.3 mile hike to catch some cool air. You can extend the hike to 6.8 miles by visiting Verkeerderkill Falls.
As Sam’s Point and Minnewaska State Park are popular destination, it is recommended to come early and check their website for latest temporary park entry closures for crowd control, Official Sam’s Point website.
Bonus, Sam’s Point is part of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. While at a different entry point, can witness much of the amazing landscape hiking around Lake Minnewaska. Follow our recent adventure, Lake Minnewaska to Lake Awosting loop that is accessible to both bicyclists and hikers.
#1. Mount Washington (NH)
After a great start to the hiking season, why not take up a challenge hiking up Mount Washington? Tuckerman Ravine Trail is a challenging in-out, 7.9 mile hike with 4,100 feet of elevation gain. At the summit, there is a visitors center to recharge and opt to take the cog railroad back to base or hike down.
When planning for the trip, prepare for a wide variety of elements. It is common to start the hike on a beautiful summer day and reaching summit with freezing temperatures and howling winds of 30-60 MPH. This mountain is known for surprising weather conditions, plan for surprises on the hike. Pack light and pack warm, bring along a rain coat and plenty of fluids.
Visit the Official Mount Washington website.