Six Hiking Safety Tips You'll Be Glad You Learned Today

Outdoor recreation has never been more popular, and the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is just minutes away from some of the best hiking areas in the region.  The Catskill and Shawangunk Mountains each have a special allure for hikers from all over the Northeast, and tens of thousands of people travel to the area each year for a chance to explore the outdoors.

Part of the adventure of hiking in the wilderness is the novelty of leaving civilization behind.  Escaping the relative safety, convenience and predictability of our modern world can be exhilarating, but it can also present a few risks for the unprepared.

These Six Hiking Safety Tips can get you into the woods for a great day on the trail- and help you safely return to civilization at the end of the day.

1. Carry a compass and a map, and learn how to use them.  Don’t rely on a GPS or other electronic device for navigation- you can’t charge your smartphone on the trail! Topographical maps of the Shawangunks and Catskills can be purchased from the NY / NJ Trail conference and are well worth the price- some people planning a simple day trip have gotten lost in the woods by hiking just a few minutes away from the road!  Practice with the compass near home, and make sure that it’s in good working order before you head out on the trail.

2. Come prepared!  Bring the proper clothing, necessary safety equipment and a first-aid kit.  Dress in layers so you can adapt your clothing to changing weather conditions. Never underestimated the time needed for the trip, and be prepared for the possibility of the hike taking longer than expected.  Check the weather forecast before heading out, and try to account for any scenario.

3. Take care of your feet while on the trail!  You’ll have a hard time hiking out safely if your feet are cramped and covered in blisters.  While regular fitness training will keep your feet in top shape for the trail, you should rest them frequently while hiking.  Wear sturdy boots and bring extra socks in case you get wet- remember: you can’t call a cab in the woods so you’ll have to be able to rely on your own two feet.

4. Always carry matches and learn how to properly build a fire. If something goes wrong in the wilderness, a fire really can save your life.  People rarely die from starvation in the woods, but they do from exposure. Keep yourself warm and dry when hiking, carry matches, and learn proper fire safety.

5. Let people know where you are going.  If you experience any problems on the trail, it's best if someone knows your plans. Sign in and out of trail-head registers, and always leave an itinerary behind with someone you trust.  It doesn’t hurt to carry a phone, but don’t rely on it!  Fully charge your battery before you head out, but be aware that you may find yourself miles from the nearest cell-tower.

6. Learn some basic survival skills.  Knowing how to get by in the wilderness doesn’t only make hiking more safe, it makes it more interesting!  Try to spot common edible and medicinal plants along the trail and notice possible shelter sites as you hike- it's a fun way to keep prepared for emergencies.

Hiking in the Hudson Valley can be a richly rewarding experience, and with just a few precautions and a little knowledge you can explore the outdoors like a pro.  Reading tips like these can help, but it’s up to you to put them into practice!

If you’re planning a hiking trip to the Hudson Valley, check out the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa.  Perfectly situated in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains and just minutes away from the Catskills- you’ll love returning to resort accommodations after a long day on the trail!

So go ahead, get out of the city and and explore the outdoors- call 845-626-8888 today, and we'll help make the most of your stay. 

Sizzling Summer Savings this weekend only: Just $79 per night!

Recently named a Top 10 US Travel Destination by Lonely Planet, there’s never been a better time to visit the Hudson Valley- by taking advantage of this sizzling summer special, you can beat the city heat this weekend for only $79* per night! 

Perfectly situated in the heart of the Shawangunk Mountains and surrounded by gorgeous Catskill views, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect weekend escape.

Explore the beautiful Hudson Valley while staying in style and enjoying our resort amenities!

With a challenging 18-hole par 71 Championship golf course and a full service health spa on site, enjoy our indoor or outdoor pools, fitness centers, tennis and basketball courts, an arcade center, and more!

However you choose to spend your time, you can beat the city heat and get away to the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa while enjoying the best deal around!

Awosting Falls at Minnewaska

Located just 90 miles from New York City and adjacent to Minnewaska State Park, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect escape from summer in the city.

Deals this good don’t come along often, so act now! 

Call our reservations department today at 888-948-3766 and be sure to mention “Sizzling Summer Savings” to receive this special rate!

Download and Read complete details about this Sizzling Summer Savings special here!

*This is a limited time offer, subject to availability.  Does not apply to existing reservations.  Rate is per room, per night for July 27th, 28th, and 29th.  Meals are not included. NYS taxes and resort fees apply.

History of the Catskill Resorts

The Catskills have long been a center of American leisure and recreation; nothing exemplifies this rich heritage more than the history of the grand Catskill Resorts.

The Granit Hotel, circa 1940's

Initially drawn to the area by the scenic beauty and pastoral natural harmony of life in the Catskills, vacationers seeking refuge from the hectic hustle of daily life in New York City began flocking to area hotels in the early 20th century.

By the 1950’s The Catskills had become synonymous with the American leisure lifestyle.  Grand Hotels like The Concord, Grossingers, The Granit, and the Tamarack Lodge gave rise to a unique Catskill culture which drew in hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Serving up non-stop meals and endless entertainment, the Catskill Resorts were the training ground for world renowned comedians such as Woody Allen, Mel Brooks, Rodney Dangerfield, Jerry Lewis, The Three Stooges, and many others.  Other popular performers at the Catskill Resorts included Benny Goodman, Mel Torme, and Barbara Streisand.

The Concord, circa 1959

As American attitudes shifted through the 60’s and 70’s, the growing demand for outdoor recreation made the Catskills Resorts a popular destination for people eager to explore the area’s majestic landscape, hike along the regions extensive network of trails, and enjoy the beautifully manicured golf courses which several resorts had to offer. 

By the turn of the 21st century, the realities of a changing world economy forced many of the Catskill resorts to close their doors. Grossingers, The Concord, the Tamarack lodge, and most others have all disappeared.  

Incorporating new opportunities for recreation, health and wellness, the few resorts which remain today are going strong, and proudly continue to preserve the rich heritage of the grand Catskill Resort tradition.  

Formerly The Granit,
the Hudson Valley  Resort today

Formerly known as the Granit, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect destination for groups of all sizes.  Situated on 400 gorgeous acres with stunning mountain views, this beautifully renovated Catskill Resort offers guests an unparalleled Catskill experience.

For those seeking the perfect balance of charm and comfort, the Catskills are still King.

Have a memory of the Catskills to share?  Comment below, and tell us about it!