Don't let the 2,000-foot gain on this 5-mile out-and-back in the Soda Range stop you the long, crowd-free summit views are well worth the effort.

Tag three mountains, including the highest point in Connecticut, on this 12.1-mile hike in Mt. Washington State Forest. Attractions include: pretty streamside camping, spectacular ridgeline hiking, fine mountain views, and a bounty of blueberries.

Solitude. Fresh air. Big views. It all unfolds on this vigorous 5-miler along a lively mountain stream to the highest point in Hudson Highlands State Park.

This 10-mile out-and-back climbs a summit with far-reaching views and ends at a rustic Appalachian Trail shelter.

This 25-mile plus hike climbs six significant peaks in the northern Catskills, accumulating about 18,000 feet of elevation gain and loss in steep, rocky terrain. This country looks and feel wild, and the views from its many lookouts easily rival those from the more-crowded high peaks.

This 12.2-mile loop rambles through some of the wildest hardwood forest in the northeast and climbs three rugged peaks taller than 3,500 feet in Catskill Forest Preserve.

A massive oak, a sprawling wetland, an atomic lake-this classic weekend trip packs it all into a 19.2-mile out-and-back on the Appalachian Trail. Bonus: Save the Earth by taking the train to the trailhead.

There are no car horns blowing on this pleasant 5-mile loop--just the therapeutic hum of mountain streams and a peaceful lake in the woods.

You won't find sections of this 8.2-mile hike on any trail map. That's because, until recently, these two 3,500-foot mountains in the Catskill Mountains sat on private land.

Hike, ski, or bike a hidden pocket of sylvan wilderness just an hour from Manhattan.