Hiking New York

Even though the section of AT in New York is pretty short (about 90 mi) it certainly is diverse. The southern half (up to Bear Mtn.) is very choppy, with lots of steep and rocky ups and downs. Even though there's not a lot of elevation change, the constant scramble can be challenging. My knees were not happy after a couple days of this. This section includes the "Lemon Squeezer", a tight passage through some cleft in a rock face.

The Lemon Squeezer

Lemon Squeezer inside

 Into the second day the AT makes its closest pass to NYC--hard to believe you're only 30+ miles from the biggest city in the US.

After many rough miles the southern half of the NY section culminates at Bear Mt., a popular and well-developed park area on the AT. In addition to miles of new trailwork (stone stairs, crushed gravel trail bed, accessible ramps) there are several observation points including the Perkins tower. Unfortunately, I hit it on a hazy, overcast day so I missed out on many of the fine views of the city and the Hudson valley. In spite of the weather, it was still an impressive sight.

Hudson Valley looking north

East of the Hudson the AT takes on a different character. After climbing "Anthony's Nose"-- a pretty steep and rocky climb on the east bank of the Hudson--the AT levels out and follows a lot more established trail bed. Blessed relief for my aching knees and feet. The picture below shows some wonderful stonework, possibly done by the CCC back in the 30s as part of the original AT construction. About 10 miles north of the Hudson I stayed at the Greymoor Spiritual Center, a Franciscan monastery that has been hosting AT hikers since 1972. Unfortunately I didn't take any pics of this wonderful spot.

Excellent trail work

US 911 Flag on Shenandoah Mt.

Ringneck pheasants

I must be in the right place :)