This week, temperatures here in NYC are climbing into the 60's and it's got me thinking about doing one of my favorite hikes. Not only is it one of the steepest hikes around these parts, it has the catchiest name: Breakneck Ridge. The trailhead is located near the town of Cold Spring, NY, about 60 miles north of Manhattan. During the first mile or so, you climb about 1,200 feet. If you go, hopefully, all you will break is a sweat. The sweeping views of the Hudson River (seen above) are fantastic.
Obviously, the best thing about steep hikes is the payoff: spectacular views. When I lived in Tucson, Arizona, my favorite steep hike was the Pima Canyon Trail to Mt. Kimball in the rugged Santa Catalina Mountains (below). This 5-miles-to-the-top trail (from cactus to pine trees) offers a killer climb; the elevation gain is about 4,200 feet.
Aside from jaw-dropping views, most steep treks offer precious solitude. But occasionally, you might find yourself sharing the peak with furry friends. A few years ago, after a long, leg-burning ascent up the super-steep Switch Back Trail (more than 20!), in Olympic National Park, I was surprised to see white, cuddly mountain goats. We kept our distance and, happily, we took in the vistas together.
Safety first! I recently stumbled across (sorry!) Backpacker Magazine's handy tip sheet for tackling steep treks.
More Steep Hikes
Chimney Tops Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park in eastern Tennessee.
This jaunt takes you up 1,700 feet in 2 miles. A sign at the trailhead reads "The View Is Worth the Climb." Truth in advertising!
Climb Mount San Antonio (aka, Mount Baldy), the highest point in Los Angeles County.
Take the Baldy Bowl Trail up and the Devils Backbone Trail down and you've got yourself a challenging loop trail that gains 3,900 in the first 5-miles.
Longs Peak via Keyhole Route, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.
Wait at least until May before attempting this one: the summit stands at a chilly 14,225. The elevation gain is about 5,000 feet. Be sure to start long before sunrise to do this 15-mile roundtrip.
Sent from James' iPhone
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