 |
|
|
|
||
|
|||
|
|||||
The "Ten Essentials" Footgear Clothing Packs Child Carriers Overnight Equipment
How to Use This CD
This book covers the Hudson Valley and greater Catskills region of New York State. The guide is divided into two broad geographical sections, with area trail maps that show the locations of the hikes.Read the trip description thoroughly before selecting a hike. Each entry includes enough information for you to make an appropriate choice.
- Name: The name of the mountain, lake, or park as it appears on most road maps and atlases.
- Number: Use this to locate the hike on the regional maps in the starting of each state.
- Type: There are two possible choices for each entry. A "dayhike" means that this hike can easily be completed in a day or part of a day for most families. There is no camping shelter or cabin along the route. "Dayhike or overnight" refers to trails on which there are designated campsites, lean-tos, or shelters. The overnight location is evident on the trail map. This indication does not necessarily mean that the hike is too long or difficult to be completed in an afternoon.
- Difficulty: Hikes are rated for children on a scale of "easy," "moderate," or "challenging." Ratings are approximate and somewhat subjective, taking into consideration the length of the trip, elevation gains, and trail conditions. It's best to gain practice as a family on the easier trails, but don't reject a "difficult" hike before noting the turnaround point or reading about an optional shortcut.
- Distance: This is the loop or round-trip hiking distance. If a side trip to a waterfall or view is included in the text and on the map, it is included in the total distance. An alternate route is described within parentheses—whether it increases or decreases the total distance is not factored into the total.
- Hiking time: This is an estimate based on hiking length, elevation gains, and trail conditions. Actual time will vary somewhat from family to family. Short rest stops are factored in—longer lunch stops are not.
- High point/elevation gain: The first number given reflects the height above sea level of the highest point on the trail. The second number indicates the total number of vertical feet gained during the course of the hike. When analyzing a hike, the latter notation is more significant than the high point in determining difficulty.
- Hikable: The months listed are when the trails are hikable. Hiking earlier or later may mean that you'll encounter icy terrain or potentially dangerous storms. See "The Hiking Seasons," to get a better idea of appropriate hiking months.
- Maps: We list New York-New Jersey Trail Conference maps by number. These excellent maps, available from the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference (For more contact information "See Addresses"), provide the most current trail information. In some cases, the name of the topographic map published by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) is given instead.Many outdoor and office supply stores stock these maps, which are a good supplement to those in our guide because they include contour lines, which indicate elevations and terrain features. Be aware, however, that a trail may have changed since the map was printed (some USGS maps are quite old), so don't follow them exclusively.
In addition to the maps in this book, you will need good maps of the overall region. DeLorme Mapping Company produces the New York State Atlas and Gazetteer, a good choice that covers the entire state. Hagstrom Map Company produces a detailed, inexpensive map that covers the Hudson Valley and Catskills from New York City to Albany County. A good source of regional maps of all kinds from a variety of sources is the Jimapco Map Store. (For more contact information "See Addresses".)
- Each entry is divided into three general sections: a summary or history of the hike and region, driving and parking instructions, and a complete description of the hike. The route is described for your hike in; any potential difficulties you may encounter on the return trip are addressed at the end of each entry. The symbols within the text, in the margins, and on the maps indicate turnaround points, views, campsites, picnic spots, and caution points. (See "Key to Symbols".)
The Mountaineers recommends ten items that should be taken on every hike, whether a day trip or an overnight. When children are involved and you are particularly intent upon making the trip as trouble-free as possible, these "Ten Essentials" may avert disaster.
1. Extra clothing. It may shower, the temperature may drop, or wading may be too tempting to pass up. Be sure to include raingear, extra shoes and socks (especially a pair of shoes that can be used for wading when bare feet might mean sliced toes), a warm sweater, a hat, and mittens.
2. Extra food and water. Too much is better than not enough. Carry sufficient water in case there is no suitable source on the trail.
3. Sunglasses. Look for a pair that screens UV rays. A wide-brimmed hat or visor also works to shade your eyes.
4. Knife. Chances are you'll never need it, but if you do and it's with the string and masking tape in the top drawer to the left of the refrigerator, you'll be sorry.
5. Fire starter—candle or chemical fuel. If you must build a fire, these are indispensable.
6. First-aid kit. Don't forget to include moleskin for blisters, cortisone cream to apply to stings, antibiotic cream for cuts and scrapes, and any special medication your child might need if he or she is allergic to bee stings or other insect bites.
7. Matches in a waterproof container. You can buy these in a store that carries hiking and camping gear.
8. Flashlight. Before you begin your hike, check the batteries (and bring along extras).
9. Map. Don't assume you can just "feel" your way to the summit.
10. Compass. You don't need anything fancy—for less than $10, you can find a sturdy, accurate compass at an outdoor equipment or sporting goods store. Teach your children how to use it, too.
In addition to the "Ten Essentials," a few other items can come in mighty handy, especially when young children are along.
Until you've hiked or camped during blackfly season (mid-May through June), it's hard to understand how immensely annoying a swarm of these little buggers can be. Insect repellent doesn't deter all of them, but it helps. (Be sure the repellent you have is appropriate for children.) In addition to this protection, dress children in lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants. A cap or bandanna may come in handy as well.
Mosquitoes flourish in low, wet areas like swamps and seem to congregate around little children who haven't perfected their swatting techniques. A head cover made of mosquito netting (with elastic to gather it at the neck or waist) may be a hike saver. If you're surrounded and defenseless, try tucking a fern into the back of your shirt collar (my father-in-law swears by this technique) and give the kids fern "flags" to wave around.
Toilet paper may come in handy; a yard or two per person is usually enough for a dayhike. And don't forget to protect children from the sun. Kids can get sunburned even in wintertime, and their skin will burn faster at higher altitudes.
Binoculars, a camera, a magnifying glass, and a bag for collecting treasures are fun to have along and might keep children from trying to push each other into the brook.
In some parks, a fee is charged for entry or parking. These fees are generally minimal (between $1 and $5) and some, such as those for Audubon properties, do not apply to members. Be aware that fees increase and a place that only charged in-season or didn't charge at all when we did our research may have changed its policy. It's best to come prepared with some cash.
Leave your poodle, portable radio, and the kids' toys at home.
In selecting footwear for yourself and your kids, make comfort the number-one priority. You do not want to find out two miles from the car that Mikey's boots (which were a tad small in the store but were half price) have turned his toes purple. Buying shoes that are too small, in fact, is probably the most common mistake new hikers make. Many stores specializing in outdoor equipment have steep ramps that you can stand on to simulate a downhill hike. If your toes press against the tip of the boot when you are standing on the ramp, try a larger size. For a more accurate fit, be sure to bring the liners and socks that you plan to wear on hikes. (In most cases, the salespeople in sporting goods stores are very helpful and will be able to guide you to an appropriate pair of boots.)
You will probably want to outfit yourself and your children with lightweight, ankle-high, leather or fabric-and-leather lugsoled boots. Be sure they have sturdy soles and provide good ankle support and adequate resistance to moisture. For some of the easy trails, sneakers or running shoes will be adequate, but on most trails, hiking boots are preferable. Especially if you will be doing a lot of hiking, invest in a good pair that will hold up to rugged terrain. (Be sure to wear new boots at home for several days before hitting the trails.) In the wintertime, insulated boots are a must, and in the spring or after a rainstorm, opt for waterproof boots. Snowshoes or cross-country skis can also be used for winter hikes on fairly level terrain, although I do not recommend winter hiking for children since it's not nearly as enjoyable for most kids as hiking in spring, summer, or fall.
As with footgear, comfort is top priority. Think layers—they can be added or taken off as the temperature allows. Often, if you are visiting a ravine or heading to a summit, factors such as wind and temperature change noticeably. With layers, the moment you begin to feel warm you can remove an article of clothing to avoid becoming damp with perspiration. In bug season, long sleeves and long pants are best. Lyme disease (described in"Health for Hikers") is a serious problem in this area, and covering up helps prevent picking up ticks—no shorts unless it's really hot. Jeans, a perennial favorite among kids, aren't necessarily the most comfortable walking pants. When wet they are very heavy and cold, seem to take forever to really dry, and unless well-worn can be stiff as cardboard. A better bet might be sweatpants, lightweight slacks, or leggings. Be sure not to wear clothing that is too loose, since it will snag on branches and brush.
If you plan to hike in cool weather, consider synthetic thermal long underwear. Cotton tends to retain moisture, whereas polypropylene keeps it away from your skin. You don't want to perspire on your climb and then become chilled once you stop for a rest or head back to the car. Socks should be medium-weight. A wide range of wool-blend hiking socks are now available; check sporting goods stores for the best selection. If you or someone in your group is prone to blisters, wearing a thin silk or synthetic liner under the socks will usually prevent blisters. (Or, put a band-aid or piece of duct tape over the blister-prone area before setting out, to protect against chafing.) Encourage everyone to wear a hat: A hat will help keep the sun out of your eyes and the blackflies and ticks out of your hair, and your head will be somewhat protected if a rain shower takes you by surprise. A hat will also help keep you warm on a brisk, windy day. A hooded rain poncho that can be folded up into a small pack is essential for every member of the family. Bring windbreakers if you're heading to a breezy summit. A few bandannas are not critical, but may prove handy for a multitude of annoyances such as runny noses, dirty hands and faces, cuts, and preventing blackfly and tick bites and sunburned necks.
Older children will probably want to carry their own packs, while the little ones will want to move unencumbered. Child-size packs can be purchased at stores carrying hiking and camping supplies; be aware, though, that they can quickly become too small. Unless you have a number of other little hikers who will be using the child's pack, you may want to fill an adult pack with a light load instead. Kids like to carry their own liquids and snacks.
Adults should carry as light a load as possible in case a child needs or wants to be carried. Backpacks should have a lightweight but sturdy frame, fit comfortably, and have a waist belt to distribute the load.
Fanny packs (small pouches that strap around the waist) have become a popular accessory, especially with kids, and can be used to carry snacks, cameras, sunglasses, and other smaller items. One for each member of the group may hold all you'll need on a short dayhike.
Infants can be carried easily in front packs. We took our oldest daughter on a mountain hike when she was just three weeks old. The walking rhythm and closeness to a parent is comforting to the littlest tykes. Older babies and toddlers do well in backpacks, where they can enjoy gazing around from a high vantage point. Look for a backpack that also has a large pouch for carrying other hiking essentials. (To keep backpacked toddlers amused, try filling a bottle with juice and several ice cubes—it's a drink and rattle in one!)
We have also used a carrier resembling a hip sling that will accommodate children up to four years old. Ours folds into a wallet-sized pouch and can be put on when the three-year-old has had enough walking for the day. Look for ideas in outdoor stores, toy stores, and stores specializing in baby furniture and supplies. Ask hiking friends what they have found useful and, whenever possible, try before you buy.
You will need additional equipment if you plan to spend the night on the trail. Sleeping bags, foam pads, a small backpacking stove and cooking utensils, plus a tent or hammocks and tarp or groundcloth, are obviously needed. Generally, folks who work at stores stocking outdoor supplies will be more than willing to help you outfit your family for an overnighter. Trailside shelters, tent platforms, or lean-tos are available on some hikes. Learn everything about the accommodations (including whether you need to reserve or rent space) before your trip.
If you are staying overnight, you may want to buy freeze-dried food, although the kids might prefer more familiar nourishment. While a food's nutritional value, weight, and ease of preparation should take precedence over taste, kids—even hungry ones—may turn up their noses at something that just doesn't taste right. You can try one-pot meals, such as chili or beef stew, or bring foods that require no cooking at all. Cooking equipment is cumbersome, and it usually takes more time than you expect to prepare and cook the meal.
Dayhikers need easy-to-carry, high-energy snack foods. Forget about three filling meals; eat light snacks as often as you are hungry. The time of year will affect your choices: you won't want to be peeling an orange with fingers frozen by the cold—you're better off with meatballs. Nonsquishable fruit is good—try dried fruit, raisins, papaya sticks, and banana chips. Fig bars, cheese cubes, granola, and nuts are also hiking favorites. Let the kids help you mix chocolate chips, peanuts, raisins, and other "gorp" ingredients: it's cheaper than buying the ready-made trail mix. My kids like granola bars, store-bought or homemade. Often, we buy a loaf of our favorite bakery bread and a hunk of mild cheese that will appeal to the kids, and then hard-boil some eggs to take with us. Let your family's taste buds and your good judgment determine what you bring.
Hikers need to drink frequently, and the best way to ensure a safe water supply is to bring it along. The plastic water bottles used by bicyclists are easily packed. It's never a good idea to drink water from an unknown source, even in the wilderness. If you must, bring water to a rolling boil, use a commercial water filter, or treat it with an iodine-based disinfectant or halazone compounds to remove the Giardia lamblia parasite, which can cause symptoms ranging from cramps to diarrhea and vomiting.
Vandalism and overuse of trails has led to strict regulations in the Catskills and Hudson River Valley regarding backpack camping. Where we've identified an agency or individual, refer to the "For more contact information "See Addresses".
On New York's public forest lands, camping is prohibited within 150 feet of any road, trail, spring, stream, pond, or other body of water except at camping areas designated by the state. In the Catskill Park, camping is not permitted above the 3500-foot mark, except in an emergency or between December 21 and March 21. Overnight camping is permitted in state forests outside the Catskill Park. Of course, all garbage must be removed from state land, so if backpacking be prepared to carry out your own trash. A (free) camping permit is required for stays of more than three days; obtain one from the forest ranger in whose area the planned trip first enters onto state land. Groups of ten or more must obtain a group camping permit. If you're planning to camp on New York State land of any kind (park, multiple-use area, etc.), always call ahead (For more contact information "See Addresses"). Most state park camping areas operate on a reservation system for campsites. Other state areas may or may not allow camping; if they do, sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Most other natural areas don't allow camping at all; the site manager may be able to suggest a nearby camping area.
In most Wildlife Management Areas, camping is not permitted.
No matter what the season, hikers must always be extremely careful about fire. On state lands campfires are permitted only in designated areas. Most other preserves do not permit campfires at all. In times of high fire hazard (usually during a dry summer), some areas may be closed completely to hikers. Check in advance if possible to avoid disappointment.
Although we indicate in each hike's information block the months when a trail is considered hikable (see, "How to Use This CD"), you can select an optimum time by being aware of certain seasonal hazards and pleasures.
Spring is the best time of the year to visit cascades, waterfalls, or any natural area where a heavy flow of water will add more drama and interest. But watch out for river crossings in the spring—August's tiny stream is often May's roaring, swollen river. Waterproof boots may be necessary since the ground is bound to be soggy. Step with care; trails are particularly susceptible to damage in the spring.
Mud season is as well known to folks in the Northeast as hurricane season is to those in the tropics. Many mountain access roads are dirt, and may be tough to navigate (or closed) in early and mid-spring.
Because March and April snowstorms are frequently the fiercest of the year in the North, we have often recommended May as the earliest hiking month. Even during the first few weeks in May, you're best off exploring drier trails at lower elevations. The pleasant weather in the lowlands often does not reflect harsh summit conditions.
Look for wildflowers that make an appearance in May: Dutch-man's breeches, Canada violet, purple trillium, and trout lily are among those you will spot. Visit places where you'll be able to witness the bird migration.
One final springtime reminder: blackflies and mosquitoes work overtime in May and June.
Summer is a terrific time to hike to cool ravines, breezy mountain-tops, or lakeside parks with swimming or cookout facilities. It's also the best time to camp, as the evenings will not be too chilly for kids. Of course, most folks recognize this, and popular spots will be crowded. Whenever possible, hike midweek and avoid holiday weekends. Summer's longer days allow hikers to remain on the trail until well into the evening. Weekend hikers can get an early start to beat the crowds or head for more remote locations.
Winterlike conditions can descend upon the higher elevations even in midsummer, so be prepared with extra clothing.
Autumn in this region draws visitors from all over the country. This is the premier hiking season, offering hikers pleasant temperatures and colorful views. Look for spots from which to admire the blushing hills as well as the annual hawk migration, a spectacular sight.
Mid-November ushers in hunting season, so in most cases we have suggested that you hike through October (although small game hunting is permitted in October). If you elect to share the woods with the hunters, be sure to dress every member of your family in brightly colored clothing, including the characteristic orange hats worn by hunters, and make plenty of noise. Late fall can also bring unexpected snowstorms. As is the case in springtime, valley weather conditions do not reflect the conditions on top of the mountains.
Winter snowshoeing or skiing expeditions along the mountain trails are recommended for only the hardiest and most experienced hiking families. We have included a limited number of year-round hikes, most of them on flat terrain at lower elevations. Many access roads are closed in the winter (lengthening the hike considerably in some cases), and finding trail markers can be difficult. Often, snow and ice make the route dangerous. If you do embark on a winter hike, stick to easy, familiar trails, following a leader experienced in such outings. Expect the trip to take at least twice as long as the time we've allotted, and be conscious of the limited daylight hours.
Weather is likely to undergo abrupt and hazardous changes in the winter, especially in the mountains. The exposure and the wind-chill factor demand that kids be dressed as warmly and covered as completely as possible.
Safety is an important concern in all outdoor activities. No guide-book can alert you to every hazard or anticipate the limitations of every reader. Therefore, the descriptions of roads, trails, routes, and natural features in this book are not representations that a particular place or excursion will be safe for your party. When you follow any of the routes described in this book, you assume responsibility for your own safety. Under normal conditions, such excursions require the usual attention to traffic, road and trail conditions, weather, terrain, the capabilities of your party, and other factors. Keeping informed on current conditions and exercising common sense are the keys to a safe, enjoyable outing.
Best Hikes with Children in The Catskills & Hudson River Valley, Copyright © 2002 by Cynthia Copeland and Thomas J. Lewis, published by The Mountaineers Books Seattle. Maps by Jerry Painter.
