A guide to the outdoors for urban-dwellers
New Jersey Regional Rails
In 2011, I moved from Philadelphia to New York City to pursue a career in the art world. I had a great job, a nice apartment, and plenty of city-life adventures. I loved living in the city but was slowly feeling the emotional, physical, and mental burnout.
From Biking to Hiking
Something had to change. I bought a bicycle, started cycling around the city, and commuting to my job in midtown Manhattan. Eventually, I started exploring ways to venture outside the five boroughs, going on day hikes and weekend camping trips in Harriman State Park. With a newfound freedom, I started enjoying living in the city like never before. I felt like I finally had the best of both worlds.
The Concrete Hiker is a resource for all New Yorkers looking to find a better balance between city life and the outdoors.
Helpful Resources
Appalachian Trail Conservancy
The ATC mission is to preserve and manage the A.T. – ensuring that its vast natural beauty and priceless cultural heritage can be shared and enjoyed today, tomorrow, and for centuries to come.
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
A great resource for finding hikes in the states of New York and New Jersey.
Avenza maps
I love old-fashioned paper maps, however, Avenza is my go-to paperless source for downloading PDF hiking maps. Search maps, download, and track your location using GPS while in Airplane Mode and you're set.
Download here in the app store.
Escape New York City with a quick bus ride to the picturesque town of New Paltz.