Hiking New York

Capturing the myriad of contrasting landscapes that span the Empire State, Hiking New York offers an ample sampling of hikes in the region for both the experienced peak bagger and the first-time hiker. Authors Rhonda and George Ostertag describe 75 hikes with rich physical, geologic, and cultural detail. Genessee River Gorge mist plumes, Mt. Marcy's Indian moniker "Cloud Splitter." Rip Van Winkle, Sleepy Hollow . . . it's all here ready to be packed along on your next trip.

From the soothing summits of the Alleghenies rising from whisper-quiet forest to the chiseled Adirondacks, replete with 4,000-footers, from the plodding Hudson and nearby Appalachian Trail to the thundering spillways of the Niagara Frontier, Hiking New York logs hundreds of miles of trails with hike specifics like length, difficulty, trailhead directions, and special attractions.

Each detailed hike description is accompanied by up-to-date and easy-to-use maps and provocative black-and-white photos. The authors, with 15 years of guidebook writing experience, also provide timely information on trail marking, land ownership, and wilderness ethics and safety.

Despite the East's early settlement, New York still revels in open spaces and untarnished vistas. Let Hiking New York be your trail companion.