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Wednesday, August 28, 2019

DEC Encourages New Yorkers to 'See the Catskills like Never Before'

New Guided Hiking Adventures are Among Countless Ways to Experience the Catskills

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded New Yorkers to see the Catskills like never before in late summer and during leaf-peeping season by attending one of many guided hikes as part of the newly launched Hike with Us • Catskills program. Experienced hikers are encouraged to check out the Catskills Fire Tower Five Challenge, snap selfies at each fire tower, and send photos to DEC for special prizes.
DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "As summer fades and fall begins, the Catskill Park is a short drive for millions of New Yorkers and provides great opportunities for families and individuals looking to get outside and explore. DEC's new guided hikes and the Catskills Fire Tower Five Challenge encourage New Yorkers to find their own outdoor adventures close to home, while learning about the history of our state's fire towers and experiencing the beauty of the Catskills."
Hike with Us • Catskills is designed for individuals and families new to hiking. This series of beginner-level hikes provide a fun, safe, introductory experience that encourages continued participation in hiking while offering educational messages and outdoor skills. Guided hikes range from two to six miles and are being held in Greene, Sullivan, and Ulster counties.
To coincide with each hiking location, Empire State Development generated itineraries with other activities, attractions, and points of interest, including recommendations for dining and lodging. The itineraries are available on the DEC "Pocket Ranger" app (in the App Store, search for the New York Fish and Wildlife App) and at the I Love NY website.
The Hike with Us • Catskills program announced last month by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, supports the Governor's "Health Across All Policies/Age-Friendly NY" Executive Order, which directs State agencies to incorporate the principles of age- and health-friendly communities into all relevant programs and policies.
The following guided hikes still have spaces available and participants are encouraged to sign-up early because space is limited:
Under Governor Cuomo's Adventure NY Initiative, DEC is making strategic investments to expand access to healthy, active outdoor recreation, connect more New Yorkers and visitors to nature and the outdoors, protect natural resources, and boost local economies. This initiative will support the completion of more than 75 projects in the upcoming years, ranging from improvements to youth camps and environmental education centers to new boat launches, duck blinds, and hiking trails. For more information on planning an outdoor adventure in New York State, visit DEC's website.
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