A.T. Miles in State
NY Trail Updates
Elevation Range in Feet
One of the unique aspects of the A.T. is its proximity to New York City. Hikers near Harriman State Park, for instance, experience the natural beauty of woodlands with occasional views of the Manhattan skyline in the distance. New York is also home to the first section of the A.T. built in 1923 on Bear Mountain.
In New York, you may see types of wildlife you weren’t expecting! The A.T. passes through a Trailside Museum and Zoo at Bear Mountain. At 124 feet, the zoo is also the lowest elevation point on the entire A.T.
New York holds a few unique A.T. spots:
Be sure to study your guidebook and maps carefully while planning hikes in New York. The trail ascends numerous, steep rocky areas that often provide excellent views but require scrambling and can be hazardous when wet. Shelters are far apart and camping is limited to designated sites; water sources are also far apart. Campfires are prohibited except in designated fire rings.
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a volunteer-powered organization that builds, maintains, and protects public trails. Together with our partners, we strive to ensure that the trails and natural areas we share are sustainable and accessible for all to enjoy for generations to come. For more information and to get involved today, www.nynjtc.org.
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is always looking for dedicated volunteers to help maintain the A.T. and assist in our visitor centers and headquarters. Opportunities range from greeting visitors and providing information about local hikes to joining a Trail crew for week-long maintenance trips, gaining first-hand experience in what it takes to keep the A.T. open and enjoyable for millions each year. Learn more at appalachiantrail.org/volunteer.
Wide-open vistas beyond the footpath offer respite and are essential to the Wild East.
Wide-open views, crisp air and solitude make for a cool hike, but when winter hiking, being prepared is key.
Wherever you are on the Appalachian Trail, birds offer sweet companionship. Yet, as hiker numbers soar, bird populations tumble.