Come Hike with Us for week four of #AdventureAtHome. Nature walks and hiking can be an excellent way to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature while reducing stress and getting healthy. New Yorkers of any age or ability can head out for a walk or hike. DEC maintains hiking trails in many areas of forest preserve lands in the Adirondack and Catskill Parks, as well as in state forests, wildlife management areas and unique areas. Find a place near you by visiting our website, checking out DECinfo Locator, or downloading the NY Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife App.
Take a nature walk in your neighborhood. Urban spaces and communities can offer a lot of opportunities to enjoy nature. That’s why DEC’s urban and community forestry program works hard to promote trees and greenspaces in cities. Take a walk around your neighborhood and find a tree that interests you. Take a moment to soak in what you are seeing. It’s amazing what you can learn from observing a tree near you. Studies show that trees improve air and water quality, reduce flooding, reduce cooling and heating energy needs, increase property values, and improve the quality of life for people and wildlife around them.
Get your day pack ready with the 10 Essentials for a safe and enjoyable experience. Download the handout to take with you.
In case you missed it, check out our YouTube playlist, which covers how to plan and prepare for your next hike.
Stay tuned for our Facebook live on Thursday July 2 at 9:30 a.m. to learn about some of the things you may see on a hike, learn about the Catskills Visitor Center, and more!
Check out some of the fire towers in New York State.