Coming out of Hibernation - Hiking Season is HERE!

What a great winter. We never really hate to see the seasons pass, because, well, they'll be back soon enough. And we do love all the seasons in the Catskills as they come and go. But it is that time to switch gears and garb. So now we're saddle soaping the hiking boots, checking out the tent and camping equipment, pulling out old trail maps, and setting some goals - new trips and re-do trips.

So many folks leave hiking for the fall and foliage. But we LOVE spring hiking. Before the leaves fully bud out is a spectacular time to walk through the forests because you can still see through the forests. Maybe even catch a glimpse of a bald eagle in the air or on a nest. The wildlife is everywhere and getting fat after winters scarcity. Pretty soon we'll see a dozen baby turkeys follow their moms through the woods. The air temp is warm but not hot. There's a good breeze keeping bugs at bay. The creeks all have water in them so we can quench our thirst right from the source. The smell of the forest after winter is just so earthy and dense. The peepers are robust in their chanting. Tender greens are ready to be picked and eaten along the trail. Could life get any richer?

Lots of local hiking groups will be doing trail maintenance work now and this is a great service to all of us. Think about helping out and hanging out with fellow hikers. Well kept trails help novice hikers have a great experience and deepen their appreciation for the Catskill mountains.

Stay in touch as well write about our fave hikes, and comment on our articles and let us know what hikes you want us to write about.