New York state is often overshadowed by the eponymous city, but the Big Apple is only one of its charms. Beyond the glittering lights of the big city, fitness enthusiasts can find plentiful opportunities to enjoy the sunshine and get their heart pumping. This article will explore some of the many athleisure opportunities available, as well as how to extend your outdoor adventures a bit further.
Hike in the Majestic Catskills
The Catskills are in Upstate New York and are known for their breathtaking, peaceful scenery. However, they also have some quite challenging trails that bring you face-to-face with nature’s wonder, such as by Kaaterskill Falls. This waterfall plunges 260 feet in two stages, and it can be accessed by multiple routes. Those looking for something even more intense can hike up Slide Mountain Trail, which takes you up one of the highest peaks in the Catskills.
If you’d like to go even further, consider trying the Adirondacks, which have tougher hikes due to the rocky soil. Whiteface Mountain is over 4,000 feet tall and offers incredible views of the Lake Placid and Saranac Lake regions.
Hit the Ski Trails in the Adirondacks
For decades, the Adirondacks have been known for their rugged pioneer spirit, even though they are only about four hours away from Manhattan. They also provide some excellent skiing and snowboarding during New York’s chilly winters, with fresh powder for months on end. Ski season in New York State is quite long, starting in mid-November and continuing until late April to early May.
Gore Mountain has become synonymous with East Coast skiing, while West Mountain provides a bit more family fun thanks to its tubing hill and full-service restaurant.
Head Uphill for Mountain Biking
Both the Catskills and the Adirondacks are renowned for their mountain biking, though the two ranges are a little different. The Catskills have more rolling hills and moderate grades, and the trails are more accessible. On the other hand, the Adirondacks have remained wilder due to the steeper, rockier terrain. Some areas are quite remote and can prove very challenging for inexperienced bikers.
However, both can be excellent options depending on your experience and preferences. Those looking for something a little easier will delight at the Great Northern Catskills, which has a 120-mile trail system. The Huckleberry Trail is a great quick trip as well.
In the Adirondacks, tough-as-nails bikers can tackle the Gurney Lane Mountain Bike Trails, settled in a 152-acre preserve near Queensbury. Both single track and double-track trails are available depending on your needs.
Visit Some Iconic Rock Climbing Spots
Actor Case Walker describes rock climbing as a “full value” sport because it works out almost every major muscle group and provides fantastic cardio. For those who would rather feel real rock under their hands, New York State offers some world-class climbing, including the Shawagunks, affectionately known as the Gunks.
The Gunks are only about 85 miles from New York City, so they’re perfectly manageable for a weekend trip. Made of conglomerate quartz, the rock has more horizontal cracks than vertical ones, which means you’re less likely to be chimneying yourself all the way up the heights. Traditional climbing–where you insert and remove your own hardware–is the norm here, though you may also be able to find a few routes with permanent hardware.
Enjoy Sailing in the Atlantic Ocean
Being a coastal state, New York City has plenty of coastline for water sport enthusiasts. Kayaking the Hudson River is a must for those who want to see a unique perspective of New York City, while those who want something a bit calmer could try the world-famous Finger Lakes.
Stay Longer in New York State
Once you’ve found your bliss in New York State, you might consider how to extend the joy for a bit longer. Park model homes are an excellent choice for those who would like to visit NY regularly. These turnkey log cabin homes only need to be hooked up to the local utilities; everything else is ready the second you step in.
Better yet, they are very affordable and are legally classed as recreational vehicles in most areas. This means that you will not have to pay property tax on the home, as they are built on a trailer. You can also move the cabin to a different location if you want, meaning there’s no need to sell your gorgeous log cabin if you decide to lease a different plot of land.
Wonderful New York State has so much more than the five boroughs and surrounding suburbs; there is a whole world of incredible outdoor experiences waiting for you here. One taste of the peaceful Catskills or rugged Adirondacks, and you’ll be researching ways to make a permanent move to this athletic paradise.
