{"id":4188,"date":"2019-09-10T11:31:57","date_gmt":"2019-09-10T11:31:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/v2.mappyhour.org\/blog\/?p=4188"},"modified":"2019-09-25T21:32:00","modified_gmt":"2019-09-25T21:32:00","slug":"nyc-explore-more-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mappyhour.org\/blog\/2019\/09\/nyc-explore-more-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"The NYC Explore More Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

When the screeches of sirens and subway tracks fill your day, it can be tough to feel like there\u2019s nature in and around NYC. Yet, NYC itself is full of pockets of green spaces and incredible adventures from surfing to hiking to mountain biking.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

Thanks to the city\u2019s robust public transit options to get to hiking, paddling, and camping, New York is one of the best places to be an adventurer without a car. And a few hours North, the Adirondacks offer over 6 million acres of pristine wilderness in one of the country\u2019s most impressive state parks.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

Here we outline our favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors in and around New York City. Our partner, The North Face<\/a>, is helping us bring this guide to life with The NYC Explore More Challenge, which starts September 10, 2019. Read on below to find out how you can win prizes, find new adventure buddies and most importantly, get outside.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

The Explore More Challenge<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

The Explore More Challenge, presented by The North Face, is a multi-month challenge that rewards you for going outside with new Mappy Hour friends. Each participating chapter will launch a guide with 10 challenges (see below) that can range from exploring your city to finding further afield outdoor gems in your state. Each adventure, which will be selected by your chapter leaders, will hold a point value. Mappy Hour members will compete to complete the challenges (aka go outside!). The North Face is further supporting this new program with prizes for all chapter members who complete the challenge and an even bigger prize for the first person to complete it in each chapter!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

\r\n

The NYC Explore More Challenge Details:<\/b><\/p>\r\n

    \r\n
  1. Our challenge dates run from September 24, 2019 to August 24, 2020. You can complete adventures any time between those dates.<\/span><\/li>\r\n
  2. Get <\/span>60 points<\/b> to complete the challenge and win a prize from The North Face! The first person to 60 will win an even bigger prize from The North Face. If you complete <\/span>all<\/span><\/i> the challenge items, there\u2019s another reward awaiting you.<\/span><\/li>\r\n
  3. We\u2019ll have a logbook at every Mappy Hour at The North Face, with locations in Soho and the Upper West Side,\u00a0 this year. You just have to come to Mappy Hour to \u201csign in\u201d. Bring a picture of yourself doing the challenge and your chapter leaders will sign off in the logbook.<\/span><\/li>\r\n
  4. We know that sometimes you miss a Mappy Hour \u2014 no worries, you can do an adventure in October and then sign in the following March.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n

    Our first four challenges are within the city limits, the next 4 can be done in a day, and the final two are overnight adventures. Number 11 is a bonus.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    \r\n

    Adventure 1: Biking in New York City<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"Biking
    The Challenge: Bike over 5 bridges in NYC.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    One of the true joys of living in NYC, in our opinion, is skipping the subway altogether and navigating the Big Apple by bike. Our favorite spots include riding up the Hudson River Greenway and<\/span> over the George Washington Bridge<\/span><\/a> and summer <\/span>rides to Rockaway Beach<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Over the past ten years, there has been enormous progress in creating bike lanes, launching shared bike services (CitiBike) and providing cyclist education. However, an uptick in cyclists deaths in NYC during 2019 is a sober reminder that the city\u2019s car culture continues to dominate. The safest option for cyclists is to ride on protected bike lanes, which are highlighted on the <\/span>NYC Bike map<\/span><\/a> with the bold green lines.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge: <\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    While much of our bike lanes offer flat routes, head to the bridges for a cardio challenge. Get your hill workout in and visit a new borough by biking over 5 of NYC\u2019s <\/span>almost two- dozen bridges with bike paths<\/span><\/a>. (5 points)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro tip:<\/b> Skip the Brooklyn Bridge.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 2: Hike in New York City<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"outdoors
    The Challenge: “Bag” each of the boroughs highest peaks <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    Yes, you heard that right! Hiking is available in every single one of our lovely boroughs. Trail options range from a few paved miles in Manhattan\u2019s <\/span>Inwood Park<\/span><\/a> to over 80 miles of rock-filled, undulating hills on the Staten Island <\/span>Greenbelt<\/span><\/a>. It\u2019s all free, and much of it is accessible by subway.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    <\/b>Bag each of the 5 \u201cpeaks\u201d of NYC (<\/span>here\u2019s a handy guide<\/span><\/a>). Plus, 2 points go to the first person who writes us a blog post about these 5 peaks. (13-15 points)<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro tip:<\/b> Don\u2019t go alone at night, it\u2019s still NYC after all.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 3: Surf in New York City<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"Surfing
    The Challenge: Surf in the Tri State Area. Bonus: Winter Surf <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    The Rockaway Peninsula in Queens has miles of surf-able shoreline and an ever -growing number of hip restaurants and bars (<\/span>and abandoned vehicles?<\/span><\/a>). While it isn\u2019t the most beginner friendly spot for new surfers, early mornings can offer clean offshore waves if you\u2019re willing to get up early. It\u2019s refreshing to explore Rockaway just for its relaxed vibe in a city famous for its hustle and bustle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge: <\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    This one\u2019s simple: <\/span>go surfing in NYC<\/span><\/a> (5 points), do it in the winter (extra 5 points).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip: <\/b>If you haven\u2019t surfed before, take a lesson \u2014 it\u2019s worth it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 4: Ski in NYC<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"\"
    The Challenge: Ski within one of the five boroughs<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    Of the NYC adventures on this list, this one is the trickiest because of both weather and gear. <\/span>Should<\/span><\/i> we have an excellent winter full of many flurries (or powder-filled white-outs) and consistent cold temps (the skier writing this has her fingers very crossed here), there are<\/span> a few key places that you\u2019ll enjoy cross country skiing in the boroughs.<\/span><\/a> However, we are currently unaware of any stores that rent cross country gear locally, which means you\u2019ll need your own set-up or have a friend with similarly sized feet. If we\u2019re wrong about this one, drop a comment on where you could rent.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge: <\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    Ski in NYC. 5 points.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip: <\/b>If you can\u2019t find the skis, go roll around in the snow anyways. You don\u2019t get any points but the joy of New Yorkers on a snow day is priceless.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 5: Rock Climb in Central Park or the Gunks<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"Climbing
    The Challenge: Rock Climb in Central Park or in the Gunks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    We\u2019d be remiss if we didn\u2019t mention that some of the best climbing in the country, is a mere 1.5 hours from our fair city. The <\/span>spectacular Shawangunks<\/span><\/a> sit right outside of New Paltz, New York and are known for their<\/span> classic multi-pitch traditional climbs<\/span><\/a>. There\u2019s also a myriad of options for bouldering and maybe one or two bolted climbs if you\u2019re low on gear.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h2>\r\n

    Climb in the Gunks. That could mean bouldering or roped climbing, as long as you get yourself on that beautiful Shawangunk Conglomerate (10 points). P.S. 5 bonus points for climbing Central Park!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip:<\/b> There\u2019s a brewery about 8 miles west of the <\/span>Trapps parking lot<\/span><\/a> called <\/span>Rough Cut<\/span><\/a> and their beers are amazing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 6: Hike a 3,500 peak in the Catskills<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"Hunter
    The Challenge: Hike one of the Catskills 3500 Peaks<\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    Get ready for steep and rocky terrain as you explore the Catskills, which is home to 35 3,500-foot (or greater) peaks. While not all are suitable for a day hike or even marked (read: you will have to bushwhack), there are still quite a few marked routes to choose from. Some adventurers even challenge themselves to hike <\/span>all <\/span><\/i>of them, joining the illustrious <\/span>Catskills 3500 Club<\/span><\/a> and earning their very own patch.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge: <\/b><\/h2>\r\n

    Hike a 3500 peak in the Catskills (<\/span>see the full list here<\/span><\/a>).<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip: <\/b>Wittenberg Mountain has, in our humble opinion, the most beautiful view.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 7: Ski the East\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n
    \"\"
    The Challenge: Ski anywhere on the East Coast. Note: if you ski in NYC, that counts for this too.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    \u2026 if you can.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    Head to a Northeastern Resort (or to the backcountry) and enjoy a day out on the slopes skiing or riding. From the annual powder day to boilerplate ice, the regions\u2019 skiing offers something for everyone. Weather can vary from wicked cold and white out visibility to warm rain and, sometimes, sun! <\/span>Here\u2019s a comprehensive list of every mountain you can reach from NYC without a car.\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip: <\/b>If you don’t know how to ski yet, many resorts offer great deals for beginner skiers<\/a>\u00a0and riders.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 8: Hike the Appalachian Trail<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n

    \"Appalachian<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Appalachian Trail, 150 miles of which cut through New York and New Jersey, first went under construction\u00a0 New York State in 1923. On the AT, as the locals and those who have hiked it call it, you\u2019ll find everything from rocky steeps to smooth wooden boardwalks over swamps. <\/span>Various sections of the trail can be accessed by bus and train from NYC. <\/span><\/a>If hiking during the summer, don\u2019t be surprised if you\u2019re passed by hairy hikers with odd nicknames heading North (ahem, thru hikers).<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    <\/b>Hike a section of the Appalachian Trail<\/span><\/a> (10 points), do so without using a car (extra 5 points).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro tip: <\/b>Make a weekend out of it.\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 9: Paddle in the Adirondacks<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n
    \"\"
    The Challenge: Paddle in the Adirondacks <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    The most spectacular of adventures on this list is the backcountry waters of the <\/span>St. Regis Canoe Area<\/span><\/a>, located in upstate New York\u2019s Adirondacks. The five-hour schlep from the city (more on holidays) makes this adventure a time commitment, but worthy nonetheless. <\/span>The Adirondack Park<\/span><\/a> includes over 6 million acres of wilderness, an area larger than Yosemite, Yellowstone, Glacier, Grand Canyon and the Great Smokies National Parks combined. The St. Regis Canoe area is a dedicated area for non-motorized boats, meaning you\u2019ll have to paddle and portage between the lakes to get to your campsite.<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    Paddle any type of human powered vessel in one of the Adirondack\u2019s gorgeous lakes or rivers. (10 points)<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip:<\/b> Don\u2019t go in the spring, the black flies are intolerable.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Adventure 10: Hike the Presidential Traverse<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n
    \"White
    The Challenge: Hike the Presidential Traverse. <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\r\n

    Head to New Hampshire\u2019s White Mountains for a Northeast adventure so classic, it warranted a dedicated<\/span> New York Times article.<\/span><\/a> The Presidential Traverse is a multi-day (or single day if you\u2019re overly ambitious) trip that connects eight peaks in the Presidential Range, each named after our nation\u2019s early presidents. Itineraries for the traverse can range from 1 to 3 days depending on your fitness and tolerance for pain. Trekkers can choose between camping and staying at the staffed <\/span>Appalachian Mountain Club huts<\/span><\/a> (Cost is around $120 a night and includes meals).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge:<\/b><\/h3>\r\n

    <\/b>Complete the Presi- Traverse (any season, any amount of days) – 15 points\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Pro Tip:<\/b> Mount Washington is known for its unpredictable and sometimes extreme weather. Luckily, the incredible <\/span>Mount Washington Observatory<\/span><\/a> offers local forecasting so you can stay abreast of potentially dangerous weather patterns.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    Bonus Adventure: Give Back\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\r\n

    Help strengthen the outdoor community of New York City by volunteering at a local non-profit! <\/span>We created a guide to a few local non-profits <\/span><\/a>but any group that helps protect nature or get more people outside is good by us. If you\u2019d like to see your organization added to the list please email <\/span>contact@outdoorfest.com<\/span><\/a> with more information about your work!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    The Challenge: <\/b>Spend an afternoon, day or weekend volunteering<\/span><\/p>\r\n

    \u00a0<\/h1>\r\n

    The NYC Explore More Challenge<\/b><\/h1>\r\n

    \u00a0<\/b>Completed at 60 Points<\/i><\/b><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
    Adventure<\/b><\/td>\r\nPoints<\/b><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Spend the day volunteering<\/span><\/td>\r\n10<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Bike over 5 bridges in NYC<\/span><\/td>\r\n5<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Bag each of the boroughs highest peaks<\/span><\/td>\r\n13<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Surf in the Tri State Area. Bonus: Winter Surf\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\r\n10, 5 point bonus\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Rock Climb (or Boulder) in the Gunks, bonus for climbing in Central Park<\/span><\/td>\r\n10, 5 point bonus<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Ski within one of the five boroughs<\/span><\/td>\r\n5<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Hike a 3500 Peak in the Catskills<\/span><\/td>\r\n10<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Ski the east<\/span><\/td>\r\n5<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Hike a section of the Appalachian Trails (10 points), without a car (5 extra points)<\/span><\/td>\r\n10, 5 point bonus<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Paddle in the Adirondacks\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\r\n15<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Hike the Presidential Traverse,\u00a0 +5 bonus for a winter traverse<\/span><\/td>\r\n15, 5 point bonus<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    BONUS: Get 1 extra point for every time you adventure with a new Mappy Hour friend<\/span><\/td>\r\n1<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
    Bonus: Take someone on their first adventure\u00a0<\/span><\/td>\r\n1<\/span><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    When the screeches of sirens and subway tracks fill your day, it can be tough to feel like there\u2019s nature in and around NYC. Yet, NYC itself is full of pockets of green spaces and incredible adventures from surfing to hiking to mountain biking.\u00a0 Thanks to the city\u2019s robust public transit options to get to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4516,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[280],"tags":[278,2],"yst_prominent_words":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-4188","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-explore-more","8":"tag-featured","9":"tag-new-york-city"},"yoast_head":"\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\t\n\n