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. 

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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.

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. 

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:

• Connecticut
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• New York
• North Carolina
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Washington, D.C.

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.

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:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington, D.C.
• West Virginia

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.

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.

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.

Had a great time with the #onondagaaudubon today at the #derbyhillbirdobservatory watching migrating raptors!

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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.”

It doesn't get better than this 💙 #NiagaraFalls #NewYork #NY #photography #landscape #landscapephotography #heyleephoto #waterfall #bird #mist

A post shared by Hayley Langan (@hey_leephotography) on Oct 14, 2017 at 9:24am PDT

This rocky, mountainous area to the west of the Hudson River is a hub of scenic hiking trails that afford some incredible views year-round. Whether you overlook the mighty Hudson River or the rolling Hudson Highlands, everything will be blanketed in gold.

Three-hundred thousand acres of woodlands covering seven mountains in the Catskills, this preserve is a must-see in the fall, when its waterfalls, rock formations, and fire towers are framed by colorful bursts of leaves.

Eight hiking trails, including the famous Gorge Trail, can be found in the 16,000 acres of the breathtaking Finger Lakes National Forest. Hike past fiery leaf tones on your way to the park’s many gorges and waterfalls.

This 17-mile gorge has been nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the East,” and since it’s located in the Northeast (where the foliage changes color each fall), you can expect a vibrant show of colors every year.

As the tallest peak in New York State, Mount Marcy’s summit rewards hikers with spectacular views of the Adirondacks and beyond. In autumn, the mountains are speckled with red and gold as far as the eye can see.

Tent camping can be done in the Hudson Valley’s gorgeous Minnewaska State Park, which offers plenty of opportunity for adventures all year round. Hikers enjoy dense foliage, lakes, and waterfalls, plus some pretty epic views.

As the second largest state park in New York, Harriman’s scale is impressive. “Group camps” of cabins, tent sites, dining halls, and rec centers allow campers to experience a sense of community between the park’s 200 miles of fall hiking trails and 31 bodies of water. 

Fall campers who seek solitude will find it at Cranberry Lake Campground. The trout-filled lake is one of the largest and most remote in the region, and it’s surrounded by 50 miles of hiking trails and 50,000 acres of woodlands. Each of the 73 campsites comes with its own fireplace and water spigot.

Fall campers of all kinds are welcome at the Thousand Islands’ region’s largest campground. The site has plenty of cabins, tent and trailer sites, and larger cottages with all the amenities of a vacation rental. Fishing, hunting, hiking, and golfing can be enjoyed on the island.

Autumn is a wonderful time of year to see the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Hike past vibrant changing leaves covering steep cliffs that line the Genesee River before heading back to one of the park’s 257 campsites or eight rental cabins.

Spanning the border between Vermont, Quebec, and the Adirondacks, this long, narrow upstate New York lake is both beautiful and bountiful. It’s a popular place to hook salmon, northern pike, trout, and more.

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Most beautiful weekend spent sailing. Special thanks to @buttersmyname and his parents for inviting us aboard Aldinha. Phil snapped this beautiful sunrise while the rest of us were recovering from a stormy night... 🌊🌩⚡️💨🌤 #nofilter #mothernature #almostgotseasick #thunderstorm #sailboatlife

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Clear Creek has over 5.5 miles of public fishing available and the creek is known for its bountiful fish populations. Expect to hook brown and rainbow trout here. The largest brown trout sampled here was 18.3 inches and the largest rainbow trout was 11.3 inches.   

Lake Ontario is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the entire world. It is around 200 miles-long and stretches all the way from the Niagara River to the St. Lawrence River. Expect to find plenty of chinook, trout, bass, coho salmon, and walleye, among other great fish. This is truly a trophy fishing spot in New York State. 

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Divided into two sections by the Cannonsville Reservoir, the West Branch of the Delaware River is an optimal destination for snagging bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Upstream, the river is stocked with over 14,000 brown trout. Smallmouth bass and rainbow trout are just two types of fish that can be found in the warm waters of the Delaware.

With 106 miles of shoreline and 435 feet of depth, Cayuga Lake is the second largest of the Finger Lakes region. Expect to find a variation of fish here, including both warm and cold water species. Anglers can hook anything from lake trout and Atlantic salmon to channel catfish and lake sturgeon. 

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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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Good way to start the year off #mettowee #springfling #polarishighlifter

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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.

Great day of riding with a backwards visor. 📹@mxdad239 #dirtbike#motocross#enduro#harescramble #offroad

A post shared by James. P (@james_pintauro239) on Nov 26, 2017 at 7:09pm PST

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

A post shared by ST (@spence_timkey) on Jun 24, 2017 at 11:35am PDT

*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.

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.   

This Adirondacks-region outdoor gear retailer sells anything you need to conquer the High Peaks of the Adirondacks. The store is amply stocked with hiking and backpacking gear, including headlamps, trekking poles, and snowshoes. 

Got traction? #themountaineer #microspikes #crampons #gear

A post shared by Mike (@cameraperson00) on Mar 19, 2017 at 8:39pm PDT

Thruway Sporting Goods, located in the historic Thruway Shopping Center, has been serving its community high-quality gear for decades. This Walden, New York, store has everything from Columbia backpacks and Black Diamond trekking poles to Garmin compasses and Adventure Medical Kits. 

For the first time we're happy to bring you the most popular styles from Oboz Footwear! Gear up with these beautifully designed technical hikers and stay #truetothetrail. Every purchase of a pair of Oboz plants 1 tree! 🌲 Come down and check them out! #takeastep #planttrees #ecofriendly #sustainability #hiking #getoutside #shoplocal #shopsmall #hudsonvalley

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Popular with Western New Yorkers who love the outdoors, Gear for Adventure has become the go-to local outdoor gear and apparel retailer for the region. Expect to find everything from apparel to equipment for your next trek. 

Check out what's new at #gfa! #Kokatat #Patagonia #ReefSandals #summer #newlocation

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Tents & Trails will prepare you for just about anything. The New York store offers all the hiking essentials like boots, backpacks, and the proper apparel, but it also offers things like first aid kits, hydration packs, and other survival gear, because when you’re an intense hiker, you just never know what kind of situation you could run into. 

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Old Goat Gear Exchange’s mission is to “not only educate you about the gear you’ll be using, but the places you’ll be using it.” Old Goat’s selection of products includes used, new, and sample items. You’ll find brands like Marmot and Outdoor Research and hiking equipment like hydration packs and breathable clothing. 

With five locations in upstate New York, Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company has become a local favorite. Find all the hiking boots, backpacks, maps, and outdoor clothing you’ll need for your next adventure at Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company. Their selection and service are unparalleled. 

Nothing beats this classic Ithaca shop. This family-owned business has been around for over 60 years, providing the public with Smartwool socks, North Face jackets and above all, a personal customer service you won’t find just anywhere. 

Camp with the kids right along the beach in Montauk. Hither Hills State Park has 190 camping spots that fill up fast, plus a nature preserve with a lake, playgrounds, walking trails, and ranger programs to keep the family entertained. Shower facilities are available but grills and cooking options are not.

#Montauk 📸: @nicolee_mule

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Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” and with 66 miles of gorge-side trails, Letchworth State Park makes a stunning family getaway. The park has 257 campsites and also cabins for rent, plus a pool for the kids to splash around in.

Families who visit Cooperstown for the National Baseball Hall of Fame should consider a stay at Glimmerglass State Park. Once there, kids can head to the beach, hike nature trails, go geocaching, and more. Campsites include showers, picnic tables, grills, and fire pits.

New York, you are exceeding expectations . . . . #fulltimerv #airstream #travel

A post shared by Megan + Louise (@oneida_journeys) on Jun 15, 2018 at 6:11am PDT

Whether camping along the Ausable River or closer to the trails of Whiteface Mountain, families will find plenty to do at this Adirondacks campground. Amenities include two swimming pools, mini-golf, playgrounds, and laundry facilities.

Shade, paints, paper and relaxation. We like this place so much we booked another week here!

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With gorges, cliffs, and waterfalls, Watkins Glen is one of the most popular nature destinations in New York. The park’s KOA campground is a children’s paradise, with mini golf, outdoor movies, an indoor pool, laser tag, and a waterslide. It was previously voted as KOA campground of the year, and kids camp free in some sections.