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. 

History of the Shawangunk Berry Pickers

The Northern Shawangunk Ridge was once home to a lively seasonal community of Berry Pickers who made their living foraging the wild blueberries which thrive along the wind-swept heights of what is now Minnewaska State Park and Sam’s Point Preserve.

Beginning in the early 1700’s, rugged men and women from the area would make the long, hard journey through untamed wilds to reach these precious fruits.  A road to the ridge wouldn’t be completed until 1850, and bears and mountain lions were common.

Makeshift tarpaper squatter shacks began to appear by 1862, and many pickers would return with their families each July and stay through the season.  A good picker could forage 35 quarts of blueberries every day, which would then be sold to the local general store and shipped to Catskill resorts and to the prosperous people of New York City.

It was the completion of Smiley Road in 1901 which really opened the door for the blueberry picking camps.  By 1920, many ramshackle shanties dotted the road which supported thriving communities for one month each year, but which were ghost-towns for the others.

The berry-picking communities were lively places inhabited by good, simple folk living close to the land.  After filling their baskets from sun up to sun down, the berry pickers would gather together and tell stories, play games, dance, drink and sing.  Some rowdy camps gained a reputation for being less “family friendly” than others.

The Berry Pickers were an industrious people who knew that blueberries bushes produce the most fruit the year following a wildfire.  When the season’s last berry had been picked, it was common for the Berry Pickers to set fire to the Shawangunk ridge.  The folks who started the blaze would often return to the local saloon and await the call for firefighters- the same berry pickers who started the fires were often the people paid to help put them out!

Following World War 2, the changing world economy meant the end of an era for the Shawangunk berry pickers.  The rise of commercial blueberry farming made blueberries an inexpensive and widely available commodity, and the reduced demand for blueberries harvested in the wild made it difficult for the Berry Pickers to return.

By the close of the 1950’s, the last of the Berry Pickers had packed up their belongings, and the shanty towns have remained silent ever since.

Many artifacts of this unique part of the American Heritage still remain, and several of the Berry Picker’s shanties still stand in testimony of this forgotten era.  A walk through Sam’s Point Preserve along Old Smiley Road reveals many examples; The Nature Conservancy now operates a nature preserve here which encompasses some of the most popular berry picking sites.

Each year, the nearby town of Ellenville celebrates this rich part of our history with the Shawangunk Mountain Wild Blueberry Festival featuring performances by local musicians, handcrafted gifts, cultural events, entertainment, and of course- blueberries!  

Ideally situated just minutes from Sam’s Point Preserve and the Shawangunk Mountain Blueberry Festival, the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa is the perfect place to stay when exploring the historic Shawangunk Ridge.  Adjacent to Minnewaska State park and surrounded by gorgeous Catskill Views, our beautiful par 71 championship golf course and full-service European health spa creates the perfect balance of Charm and Comfort.

Featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an arcade center, tennis, basketball and so much more, you'll enjoy resort accommodations while exploring all the area has to offer!

Do you have a story to share about Blueberry picking in the Shawangunks?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Exploring Minnewaska's Natural Beauty

The majestic beauty and natural wonder of Minnewaska State Park Preserve epitomize the true splendor of the Hudson Valley; stunning white cliffs stand in stark contrast to sapphire sky lakes, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Catskills and Hudson Valley abound.

Follow the crystal clear Peter’s Kill brook along her lazy path through the mossy glen and find yourself a world away; immersed in the tranquil, serene beauty of the fabled Shawangunks.  

Stroll along the carriageways and witness striking views from the rugged cliffs which dominate the ridge; you’ll be met by a host of exotic native inhabitants: red tailed hawks and peregrine falcons make these cliffs their home.

Rest beside the awe-inspiring Awosting Falls and feel the pure cool mist against your face.  Breathe the pine-scented mountain air, and be still.    

Located just minutes from the Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, the unique ecology of Minnewaska State Park Preserve offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to explore the true majesty of the Hudson Valley.

Have a story to share about Minnewaska State Park Preserve?  Comment below, and tell us about it!

Exploring the Hudson Valley

As the newest team member here at the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa, I'm really looking forward to exploring this historic hotel and conference center while updating you on the local events and attractions which make the Hudson Valley so special.

The historic Catskill resorts are legendary, and the Hudson Valley Resort is certainly carrying on that heritage.

 Perfectly situated to provide easy access to both the majestic Catskills and the fabled Shawangunk mountains, it's the perfect landing spot to explore the richness of the greater Hudson Valley.

As I learn more about the beautiful grounds and amenities here at the hotel, I'll be sure to post photos, videos, and first-hand experiences for you to review and enjoy!

I hope to discover the best the Hudson Valley, Catskills and Shawangunks have to offer; whether hiking and biking in our beautiful scenic parks, playing the area golf courses, enjoying the regions best fine dining, or exploring opportunities for health and wellness, you'll learn about it here.

Why not tell us about your favorite experiences here at the Hudson Valley Resort?  Comment below to share your story!