
What we’re about
We are primarily a group of day-hikers from the Metropolitan New York area (NJ/NY/PA). We hike weekly on over 80 hiking trails within a 60-minute driving radius of our area. We are mostly older hikers (50+), but we welcome adults of all ages, singles, and couples. Our hikes are moderate, typically 5-7 miles-long, with an elevation gain in the range of 750-1,500 feet, and are mostly on trails located in Southern New York and Northern New Jersey. We hike every weekend (Saturday and/or Sunday), and often have additional mid-week hikes.
Most of our hikes do not require prior experience but do require a reasonable level of fitness, and appropriate gear such as hiking boots. Many of our members are seasoned, regular hikers with a wealth of experience and advice for new hikers.Because most of our hikes are in the wilderness where trailheads are only accessible by car, our group works best for those with a car. We do organize several urban hikes (walks) in New York City every year, as well as several regional hikes in the wilderness that are accessible by public transit.
We occasionally organize hiking trips outside our area, typically to National Parks and to other “destination” hiking areas.
We also organize seasonal moonlight-hiking, biking, kayaking, and social outdoor events such as picnics.
All our events are free (except for charges imposed by third parties at special events).
“The mountains are calling, and I must go…” (John Muir, 1923).
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- *July 4th in the Park* - Arches, Castles, Monuments, and ScramblesColumbus Circle, New York, NY
It is time to celebrate Independence Day with a 7 to 10 mile meander through the under-explored nooks and corners of Central Park! Meet at Columbus Circle (Corner of Central Park West and Central Park South, across from Time Warner building) ten minutes ahead of departure at 11 am! Come prepared with good hiking shoes, sun-protection, water and snacks (even though we will have access to water and snacks in the park). This urban hike is rated moderate because of mileage. Note: this trek is one-way, with the return leg on the NYC subway. En route to the subway we will make a brief stop at St. John the Divine, the largest Gothic Cathedral in the world. If you have not used the subway in a while, please consult OMNY.info. Optional late lunch/early dinner after the hike - venue to be announced. [NOTE: For this event, it's OK to bring a guest with you]
Bring plenty of water and snacks, and appropriate seasonal items (sun- and insect-protection in summer, and crampons in winter). Day-of-hike-only phone: 973-704-7362.
**Note** We hike at a moderate pace, and never leave anyone behind. Our hikes are not suitable for fast hikers who like to forge ahead of the group.
**To join our hikes, you must enable Meetup messaging with organizers (see "New to hiking" link below), and must post a profile image that can be used to recognize you. If you do not, you may be removed from Going list.
**By signing up for this event you are acknowledging that you have read and accepted the posted NJO legal disclaimer: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/emigr7kcfcjw2g3tq4kib/NJO-Legal-Disclaimer.docx?rlkey=3e3i9wpx3t28m0f4st018wloa&dl=0
**NJO policies to discourage "repeat no-shows", "repeat late-cancels" (canceling <48 hours before hike), or "Frivolous RSVPs". For details, see: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/2gihwj37j7ltjvfyywgle/NJO-Policies.docx?rlkey=khddp9ns3ioxswkopgyzixeds&dl=0
This is your only notice - if you find yourself removed from the Going or Waiting List, refer to document above. You may message hike leader to reinstate you, but no guarantees!
** New to hiking or Meetup? Try: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/vcezsno68166y4h79t1m4/New-Hiker-Guide.docx?rlkey=0g0cfyccgj66gq4si52thp4hh&dl=0