My name is Victor. I’m Peruvian, and I love engaging in outdoor activities. I studied tourism and hospitality management because I have a passion for travel, meeting new people, learning about their cultures, and, above all, exploring new places. A little over a year ago, I moved to a new city, and that’s when my adventure truly began.
New York City is a fantastic place to live; there is always something new to do and discover. It boasts incredible attractions with spectacular views, such as “Little Island,” “Central Park,” and “High Line,” just to name a few. There are also iconic viewpoints that offer a 360-degree perspective from above, like “Top of The Rock,” “One World Observatory,” or the recently opened “Summit One Vanderbilt.” The list of things to do and places to visit in the city that never sleeps seems endless.
However, after three months of living in The Big Apple, my body began to yearn for nature. I felt the need to reconnect my soul with outdoor activities, far from the city’s stress and noise, escaping the concrete jungle and immersing myself in the tranquility of a green landscape. Nature was calling me.
I inquired with many people about where I could go hiking, find nature, and escape from the bustling city. The answer came to me swiftly – Upstate New York. It was a revelation that filled me with joy, uncovering the existence of places like Anthony’s Nose, Breakneck Ridge, or Beacon Mountain and its Fire Tower. It was quite a surprise, considering New York’s reputation as a cosmopolitan metropolis. However, following the initial excitement, the million-dollar question loomed: How could I reach these places? The answer remained consistent: ‘You must have a car.’ While this response didn’t offer immediate help, it certainly didn’t deter my determination.
Eventually, someone mentioned a nearby hiking spot – Blue Mountain Reservation in Peekskill. They reassured me that it was within reach and a car might not be necessary. In my quest for this location, I stumbled upon the ‘Metro-North RailRoad,’ and that’s where my adventures truly began. Peekskill holds fond memories for me, not only because it was the first city I explored outside of New York City but also because I had the pleasure of sharing the experience with part of my family.
After that first visit, I never tired of seeking information about other hiking destinations. Today, I have explored more than seven hiking spots, always venturing out alone. A little over a month ago, I made the decision to organize a Hiking Meetup. Meetup groups are quite popular here, offering a great way to make new friends and connect with people who share the same passion. I was pleasantly surprised by the enthusiasm my idea generated.
Thanks to that positive response, today, this page is coming to life. Here, I will share my experiences and offer recommendations for those who wish to embark on these solo adventures. Alternatively, you can join our Meetup events, where we will explore various places in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut that you might never have realized were so close and so beautiful. These are places where you can connect with nature without traveling too far, all without the need for a car. Let’s get started!