New Loop Hikes, New Maps, + Prizes, Oh My!

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Sunset Rock. Photo by Steve Aaron Photography.

E-Walker: News From the Trail

New Loop Trails Bring Safer, More Enjoyable Hiking to NJ Parks

Several trail improvements, which aim to make the trails easier to follow, are now complete in Ramapo Mountain State Forest, Abram S. Hewitt State Forest, and Wawayanda State Park’s Terrace Pond area.

Networks of marked trails usually grow organically over many years, with additions of new spurs and connectors that can eventually lead to confusing webs of different trail markings. While long-time hikers in an area take these gradual changes in stride, the final product can be overwhelming to someone new. Based on input from hikers, volunteer leaders, trail stewards, search and rescue personnel, and park staff, the Trail Conference has been able to improve the experience by reblazing trails in these parks.

Hot Off the Press + New on the Trails!

Just in time for fall leaf-peeping adventures, the 2020 Harriman-Bear Mountain Trails Map is finally here!

Explore over 230 miles of trail in Harriman + Bear Mountain state parks and nearby parklands, including the Appalachian Trail and Long Path.

Grab Your Map Today

Lisa hiking with her pup in her pack. Photo by Lisa Campanella.

Share Your Trail-A-Thon Story

Congratulations to Lisa, the first Trail-A-Thon participant to hit 25 miles! Our first milestone winner, she's sharing why she's participating in the event and how the outdoors has guided her through many life challenges.

The Trail-A-Thon is a 100-mile challenge and fundraiser to celebrate the Trail Conference's Centennial. We want to get people outdoors and excited about our mission! After all, when you support the Trail Conference, you're ensuring great trail experiences are possible. There's still time to join in on the fun and win some great prizes in the process; everyone who raises $100 receives our new Harriman Trails neck gaiter!

We'll continue to highlight inspiring stories of individuals and teams participating in the Trail-A-Thon, as well as our next milestone winners. For a chance to be featured, share your photos, videos, and your “why” on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter by tagging @nynjtc and #TrailAThon2020.

Read Lisa's Story + Cheer Her On!

Spotted Lanternfly. Photo by Stephen Ausmus.

Spotting Lanternfly Before It's Too Late

Spotted lanternfly (SLF) has been spotted in New Jersey at the Delaware Water Gap. Early detection and elimination of SLF infestations is critical to preventing agricultural damage and degradation of natural areas.

To learn more about our efforts to stop the spread of SLF, please follow our Conservation Dogs program on Instagram: @DiaSavesTheForest.

Learn How to Identify + Report

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Never Too Late to Take the Trail-A-Thon Challenge!

We are so inspired by the incredible kindness + enthusiasm shown by the trail community through our Trail-A-Thon. So far, 395 trail lovers have taken the challenge. Together, we've ventured more than 4,150 miles and raised over $20k, shattering our original goal in just the first week!

So we're looking to bag even bigger peaks; we're asking for your help to do even more good work. We're excited to announce we've doubled our fundraising goal to $40,000—because when we work together as a Trail Family, there's nothing we can't do! Whether you hike 1 or 100 miles (or more!), everyone can be a winner + score some amazing prizes.

Need to Know: Hunting Season Dates + No-Hunting Hiking Areas

With the start of N.Y. early bear (Sept. 12) and bowhunting (Oct. 1) seasons, outdoor recreationists should be aware of hunting season schedules and areas where hunting is permitted when choosing where to explore in the greater New York metropolitan region. We've compiled a list of our top 10 no-hunting hike areas.

Remember: It's always a good idea to wear bright colors when in the woods during hunting season, no matter where you go!

First Sterling Furnace Half Marathon: A Socially Distanced Success!

Congratulations to everyone who ran the first Sterling Furnace Half Marathon—including our Executive Director, Joshua Howard (left), and Director of Donor Advising, Don Weise! The beautiful weather and a fun course made for a perfect race day. Thank you to Board member Charlie Gadol for putting on the event and raising funds and awareness for our work, to our sponsors, and especially to our volunteers! Special congratulations to the race winners, Sandra Ferrari and Yuval Zarai.

Making the Most of Your Legacy Webinar Series

If you’ve been wondering about your charitable giving options, we invite you to participate in our new webinar series, Making the Most of Your Legacy. Longtime Trail Conference supporter David J. Haas, president and founder of Cereus Financial Advisors, LLC, will be offering insight on several ways to give, explaining the benefits of each method. Join us for Part 3 of the series on Oct. 7 to learn about smart beneficiary selection for your IRAs, 401(k) plans, life insurance, and annuities.

How to Hike a Trail Less Traveled

When you opt for a hike that sees less foot traffic, you're helping to alleviate stress on the land. The most popular trails and outdoor destinations in our region all have alternatives that are equally spectacular—and we’re sharing our favorite trails less traveled. Bonus: When you opt for an "alternative" hike, you’re part of the solution. You're practicing Leave No Trace principles to help relieve the overuse of popular trails, protecting the land, and helping to keep these special places from being "loved to death."

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