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. 

The Comic’s Haven: It was an Honor.

The Old Catskills Resorts were once a haven for American Comedy; an honor which has forever made its mark on the region, if not the world.  Every year, tens of thousands of New Yorkers would flock to the Hudson Valley to relax in luxury, enjoy the outdoors, and be entertained by the pioneers of modern stand-up.

Milton Berle, George Burns, Sid Caesar, Don Rickles, Jackie Mason… the list goes on and on.  Perhaps the greatest legacy of The Kings of the Catskills is “the one-liner”.

While many of the old Catskill comics have passed on, the one liner still thrives today.  In honor of the Catskills heritage as a comedy haven, we’ve complied the best of the best of the one-liners of old.

I just got back from a pleasure trip. I took my mother-in-law to the airport.

I've been in love with the same woman for 49 years. If my wife ever finds out, she'll kill me!

The doctor gave a man six months to live. The man couldn't pay his bill, so the doctor gave him another six months.

You have the Midas touch. Everything you touch turns to a muffler. 

A doctor has a stethoscope up to a man's chest. The man asks, "Doc, how do I stand?" The doctor says, "That's what puzzles me!"

I wish my brother would learn a trade, so I would know what kind of work he's out of.

A car hit an elderly man. The paramedic says, "Are you comfortable?" The man says, "I make a living."

I was playing golf. I swung, missed the ball, and got a big chunk of dirt. I swung again, missed the ball, and got another big chunk of dirt. Just then, 2 ants climbed on the ball saying, "Let's get up here before we get killed!" 

Doctor: "You'll live to be 60!" Patient: "I AM 60!" Doctor: "See! What did I tell you?"

Patient: "I have a ringing in my ears." Doctor: "Don't answer!"

While the days of Catskill Comedy may be gone, the Hudson Valley is still a favorite destination for tens of thousands of visitors every year.  With endless opportunities for recreation, entertainment, relaxation, and outdoor activites, it’s no wonder.

Formerly "The Granit", The Hudson Valley Resort & Spa, is honored to have been a part of the great Catskill haven of comedy.  Conveniently located just 90 miles from New York City, we're always happy to host groups of any size.  With 41,000 sq. ft. of banquet and meeting space, grand ballrooms and theater, we’re tickled pink to have you.  Give us a look, and find out how affordable true customer service and comfort can be.

Famous 50's Hot Rod Weekend at Hudson Valley Resort

Polish the chrome and rev up those engines, folks- the Famous 50’s special Hot Rod weekend is rolling into town!  This Catskill resort is ready to rumble!

Celebrating 20 years of awesome auto shows, Famous 50’s Northeast Nationals 2012 will feature the hottest street rods, custom cars, muscle cars & trucks, custom vans, classic cars and rat rods all made before 1985.  Don’t miss out!

If you like custom and classic cars, you’ll love the Famous 50’s Northeast Nationals!  Trophies will be awarded for best flames, biggest motor, best custom, and more! 

DO NOT MISS the top flame throwers in the country, FLAMES “R” US, blasting 2,500 degree flames up to 100 feet!  Get to the Hudson Valley Resort this father’s day weekend and be blown away by the Famous 50’s Northeast Nationals!

Dance the night away to the rocking sounds of the 50’s and 60’s with live performances by The GTO’s, The Shallows, RB Express, Desire, The Soulville Social Club, The Roller Cats, and more! 

What better way to celebrate Father’s day weekend?  It’s non-stop muscle car mayhem at the HudsonValley Resort!  Reserve your room early for this special event, and grab yourself a sweet discount!

Click here to learn more about the Famous 50's Hot Rod Weekend!

Have great memories or photos to share from previous years?  Comment below!

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!