Advanced Hiking New York

Afternoon Picnic at South Mountain

Join us for an afternoon picnic at South Mountain - good food and good company among the trees and various other greenery :) We are potlucking snacks, so please bring snack to share or snacks you know you'll eat. Ideas include chips, salsa/guac, crackers, drinks, desserts, especially stuff that's easy to share and sample. We recommend that you bring something to sit on, as we can't guarantee that we can snag enough picnic tables for everyone (we aren't renting a pavilion for this event to keep it free). If you want to bring your children or pups, this would be a good event to do so! Parking: this one is on the northeast side of reservation - Turtle Back Rock Picnic Area. See this pin of the lot on gmaps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EHBhvjLpd3K5x78J7 Photos of the parking lot and picnic tables are attached. We are picnicing 2-4pm. **Optional:** After 4p when we're all cleaned up, anyone interested can join for a casual 30min to 1hr easy hike that starts/ends at the picnic area. Please keep your RSVP current so people have an idea of how much food to bring. You are responsible for your own safety when participating in any Meetup activity. Hope to see you there!

Adirondack Fall Foliage - Car Camping

**Fall in the Adirondacks is always spectacular!** Come join us for a weekend of camping and hiking in the southern Adirondacks, which has better foliage and far fewer crowds than the High Peaks. A couple of important notes: 1. **Weekend trips are open to regularly attending members in good standing only. Message Andre if you're interested.** 2. Hikes are member-organized. Everyone is expected to be able to read a map, follow a trail, and choose hikes within their fitness and ability. Depending on the attendees, we might split into two or more hikes. Do not count on someone more experienced or skilled than yourself to lead you. Hikes in the area are typically 5 miles and up, suitable for intermediate and advanced hikers. I've found that doing a couple of short hikes in different areas maximizes the foliage viewing. (See [Andre's AllTrails list of nearby hikes](https://www.alltrails.com/lists/southern-adks-day-hikes-fb508ef?u=i&sh=q9msug).) There are several great lookout towers in the area that provide 360-degree views, and the high peaks are always an option if you want something longer. **Logistics:** * **Camping Location:** Car-camping near Long Lake / Newcome NY ara, with showers, toilets, BBQs, picnic tables, and canoe rentals. Max two tents and two cars per campsite. * **Food:** BYO food and snacks. There is very little nearby in terms of stores, so bring all your food for the weekend. Mountain House dehydrated meals are a fine option. * **Cost:** $25 per person for two nights of camping, paid to Andre * **General Rules**: We are a low alcohol group. No RVs, generators, camper vans, etc. No dogs allowed. **Schedule:** * **Friday:** Leave as early in the afternoon as you can. It is 5-6 hours to the campground from NYC. Please try to arrive by 10 pm out of courtesy to other campers. * **Saturday:** We'll rise early for our various hikes, BYO dinner at the campsite around a campfire. * **Sunday:** Generally a short hike before hitting the road in the afternoon. \*\*\* **Camping Gear:** * Tent, or space in someone's tent * Sleeping pad and sleeping bag suitable for the low 30s at night * Stove, pots, and pan (check about sharing) * Personal plate/spoon/cup, etc; toiletries, towel, and flip-flops for the shower; swimsuit (for the brave). **Hiking Gear:** * Standard day hiking gear: Waterproof boots suggested (trail shoes are not recommended in the ADKs), non-cotton clothing, sunscreen, bug spray, sunhat, sunglasses, rain gear, hiking poles, snacks, etc. * Winter hat, gloves, and jacket, plus insulating layers to account for unpredictable fall mountain weather. If you plan on hiking one of the high peaks, bring microspikes and full winter clothing since early October is usually the first real snow of the season. * Maps of the region: [National Geographic Adirondack High Peaks](http://amzn.to/1JUrKk2) & [National Geographic Northville, Raquette Lake](https://amzn.to/3LcmGud) * **GPS app with offline maps** **Weather:** Average hi/low: 70s/40s, might be in the 30s. The weather above the tree line is always worse. Mountain weather is often unpredictable, so plan accordingly.

You're Invited! AMC Open House - New Members Welcome!

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX0000012vhZ2AQ/act00019525)** **Curious about AMC? Come on in!** Join us for a welcoming, community-centered Open House where you can learn more about the Appalachian Mountain Club and how we connect people to the outdoors. Whether you’re a lifelong hiker, a weekend wanderer, or just beginning your outdoor journey, there’s a place for you here. For 150 years, AMC has been fostering the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. At our Open House, you’ll discover how we bring that mission to life through recreation, conservation, education, and advocacy across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. **What to Expect** * Meet AMC staff, volunteers, and members * Learn about local trips, programs, and volunteer opportunities * Explore how our conservation work protects the landscapes we all love * Get the inside scoop on lodging, outdoor experiences, and ways to get involved * Ask questions and find your next adventure **Why Attend?** Because the outdoors is for all of us. And the more we come together, the more we can do to protect it. You don’t need experience. You don’t need gear. You just need the desire to step outside and connect. So bring a friend, your curiosity, and your love for the outdoors. Everyone is welcome to attend, whether you are new to the AMC, a long-time member, or just curious about us. We can’t wait to welcome you! **Where to Meet** We'll see you at our partner [Rivian](https://rivian.com/)'s showroom at 461 West 14th Street in Manhattan at 6:00 pm for refreshments, games, information, and more!

Pelham Bay/ Orchard Beach to Hunter & Twin Islands-Members Appreciation

**WARNING: THIS EVENT MAY BE WAY TOO EXCITING FOR MOST OF YOU!** At this point in the process and because this is a Members Appreciation event, I would like to add a few more members who I know and have supported this group in the last year or so. IF THIS IS YOUR FIRST EVENT WITH US, IMMEDIATELY AFTER YOU RSVP WHETHER YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST OR NOT, YOU MUST SEND ME YOUR E-MAIL TO MY E-MAIL AS EXPLAINED BELOW. I use capital letters to emphasize stuff not to shout at you! PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON THE RSVP BUTTON UNTIL YOU HAVE READ THE ENTIRE DESCRIPTION OF THE EVENT VERY CAREFULLY. I just ask that all attendees be considerate with respect to the RSVP process. I consider this a Members Appreciation Event and it's also a bit unique. The last times we did this it was one of the best events of the year. WE WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY MONETARY DONATIONS ON THIS EVENT NO MATTER HOW STRONG YOUR URGE TO CONTRIBUTE IS. The wait list for this group does NOT operate in a conventional way. Those on the wait list will NOT be moved to the going list automatically. IF APPLICABLE, ALWAYS JOIN THE WAIT LIST WITH LOW PRIORITY WHICH IS FREE. IF THERE IS A WAITLIST, IT APPEARS MEETUP WILL ASK YOU IF YOU WANT TO JOIN MEETUP + BUT IN SMALLER LETTERS AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE YOU CAN CLICK CONTINUE WITH THE FREE PLAN. There is NEVER a need to pay extra to use Meetup's High Priority wait list classification for this group. We are also looking to add a number of First Timers to this event. However, you actually need to read the description of the event carefully. FIRST TIMERS: IF YOU HAVE NEVER ATTENDED AN EVENT BEFORE WITH THE GROUP, I AM ASKING FOR YOUR HELP AND COOPERATION. I AM REQUIRING THAT YOU SEND ME AN E-MAIL TO [bsb2@att.net](http://bsb2@att.net/) AS SOON AS YOU RSVP, EVEN IF YOU ARE ON THE WAIT LIST, AND PUT YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS IN THE BODY OF YOUR MESSAGE TO ME. THIS WILL HELP ME COMMUNICATE MORE EFFECTIVELY WITH THOSE WHO RSVP. SOMETIMES MEETUP MESSAGES DO NOT GET DELIVERED FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS. IF YOU CAN'T ABIDE BY THIS SIMPLE REQUEST, YOU ARE GOING TO END UP ON THE NOT GOING LIST. (NO GUESTS UNLESS YOU HAVE ATTENDED AN EVENT BEFORE WITH THIS GROUP-Your guest can always sign up just as you did.) I WILL LEAD THE GROUP ONCE AGAIN AROUND HUNTER & TWIN ISLANDS. ("The professional is the one who can do it again."-Dizzy Gillespie said that. And Stymie of The Little Rascals said, "I don't know where we're going but we're on our way. ) The first time we did this event we were guided by the Urban Park Rangers. FEATURE PHOTO TAKEN BY THE LATE JIM WILLIAMS. WE WILL LIMIT THIS EVENT TO AROUND 20 MEMBERS. PRIORITY IS GIVEN TO THOSE WHO HAVE ATTENDED EVENTS IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, HAVE FEW CANCELLATIONS AND HAVE NOT GIVEN ME A HARD TIME! IF YOU WANT TO BRING A GUEST AND I KNOW YOU, PLEASE SEND ME AN E-MAIL. YOU CAN GET THERE BY SUBWAY-THE # 6 TRAIN- OR CAR AND I WILL PROVIDE DETAILED DRIVING/FREE PARKING INFO. BRING AN OMNI CARD OR CREDIT CARD BECAUSE WE WILL TAKE A SHORT BUS RIDE BACK TO WHERE WE STARTED ONCE WE FINISH OUR EXPLORATION. We will reschedule if the #6 does not stop at the last station on the line. This event will be a fun, realatively fast paced, flat, 7 mile hiking tour thru Pelham Bay Park and Orchard Beach which will include a hike around Hunter and Twin Islands which are on the far edges of Orchard Beach. I suspect very few members have ever been there. In fact, most folks probably have no idea these islands even exist-and they are not islands anymore! Both areas are heavily wooded, uninhabited and even a bit mysterious. A few years ago, I literally ran into a deer while scouting out the route on Twin Island. We will meet BEFORE 10:30 A.M. Be ready to go. WE LEAVE ON TIME. BRING LUNCH AND WATER. WE EAT AT ORCHARD BEACH. IF YOU ATTEND YOU MUST WEAR LONG PANTS AND A LONG SLEEVE SHIRT. MEETING DETAILS WILL BE SENT OUT VIA A MEETUP MESSAGE TO ALL THOSE WHO RSVP NO LATER THAN THE EVENING BEFORE THE EVENT. IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO, ON YOUR DESKTOP, PLEASE CLICK ON YOUR PROFILE WHICH IS ON THE TOP RIGHT OF THE SITE, THEN CLICK "SETTINGS", THEN CLICK E-MAIL UPDATES" ON THE LEFT. MAKE SURE YOUR E-MAIL UPDATES ARE ON AND WHERE IT SAYS "UPDATES ABOUT YOU”, CHECK MESSAGES BOX. THIS WILL HELP TO INSURE YOU GET MESSAGES FROM ME. I LIKE TO THINK THOSE MESSAGES ARE IMPORTANT. IT LOOKS LIKE YOU CAN CUSTOMIZE YOUR SETTINGS FOR A SPECIFIC GROUP WHICH MAY BE HELPFUL IF YOU BELONG TO MANY MEETUP GROUPS. AS ALWAYS, I am also going to ask that people NOT post any comments or questions prior to the event. You have more than enough information to do this once you get the meeting details. No offense, but I don’t need to know-and neither does anyone else what you are doing that day if you can’t make it or what you think the weather will be, etc. etc. You may even think you have some deep insights into something or other but I ask you to keep that deepness to yourself. AFTER the event, post as many comments and photos as you like. The comments/questions you post BEFORE an event are almost always annoying and unnecessary and I'm not the only one who believes that. PLEASE RESPECT MY WISHES ON THIS. I strongly recommend folks also sign up for my relatively new group. See [https://www.meetup.com/nyc-wanderers/?eventOrigin=your_groups](https://www.meetup.com/nyc-wanderers/?eventOrigin=your_groups) If the weather forecast is really bad, I will post a notice on the day of the hike by 7:00 A.M. If there is no notice, we go. We will probably finish around 3:30 p.m. right where we started.

Bull Hill Hike in Cold Spring!

On Sunday, October 4th we’ll do the **Bull Hill hike in Cold Spring**! 🏞️ **Schedule of Events** \- 8:30am\, meet at Grand Central \(please arrive early\!\) by the circular information counter with the big clock in the middle of the big hall \- 8:56am\, take the green Hudson Line train from Grand Central to Cold Spring \- 10:16am\, arrive in Cold Spring \(meet our friends who drove there near the train station\, find a restroom\, grab a snack\, etc\) \- 10:30am\, start the journey \- Walk to trail head\, 20 minutes \- Hike bull hill full loop\, 4 hours \- Map of hike: [https://parks.ny.gov/sites/default/files/HudsonHighlandsTrailMapNorth.pdf](https://parks.ny.gov/sites/default/files/HudsonHighlandsTrailMapNorth.pdf) \- Total distance is about 5\.5 miles\. Hardest part is the first two miles as we’ll be going up 1400 feet\. The rest will be relatively easier as we’ll generally be going downhill\. \- Guide for the hike: [https://takeahike.us/bull-hill-mt-taurus-loop/](https://takeahike.us/bull-hill-mt-taurus-loop/) \- 2:30pm\, finish hike \- Trains leave cold spring to nyc \(2:19pm\, 3:23pm\, 3:52pm\, 4:20pm\, 5:19pm\) \- Get back to nyc 1 hour 30 minutes later And for those interested in having a late lunch (or exploring) afterwards \- 2:30 to 3:50pm\, I booked a reservation for 8 at Riverview Restaurant \(to avoid the lines lol\)\. It’s very close to the Cold Spring train station \- Meetup event link for Riverview Restaurant: https://www.meetup.com/borough-hoppers/events/316719776 \- can also explore the food\, drink\, and dessert scene in Cold Spring \- 12 minute walk to Cold Spring train station \- take the 4:20pm train \(arrive back in Grand Central by 6pm\) **The not so fun rule on RSVPs** Please only RSVP if you think you can make it and adjust your RSVP asap if anything changes (as there are other people who would like your spot). Two no shows or cancellations within 6 hours results in a 4 month ban. I will send a reminder 24 hours in advance to the group Thanks and can't wait to see you!

CONCRETE TO TRAILS: Bus to Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center

**[>> REGISTER HERE FOR THE BUS TO FALL FOLIAGE DAY AT REEVES MEADOW<<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTbl2AG/act00023162)** 🍂 \*\*Crunch some leaves. Make some memories.\*\*🍁 **Trade sidewalks for dirt paths—no car needed!** **Concrete to Trails** bus trips make it easy to hike, explore, and meet fellow outdoor lovers just beyond the city. No experience required. Celebrate the autumn colors with AMC at our **Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center on October 18th from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm!** Enjoy guided hikes, foliage walks, seasonal treats, nature activities, and some of the best fall colors in Harriman State Park. Whether you're looking for a relaxed stroll or a more challenging hike, there's something for everyone. 🥾 Guided hikes & walks ☕ Hot drinks, apple cider & donuts 🎨 Leaf printing & nature activities **🍎** Family-friendly activities 🍁 Commemorative sticker while supplies last **[Fall Foliage Day at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTS52AO/act00023161) is Free and open to all!** **If you need a ride to the event, registration for AMC's Concrete to Trails bus opens October 3rd at 12:00 [HERE](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001GTbl2AG/act00023162)**

AMC NY/NJ 20s and 30s Thirsty Thursday (Midtown Manhattan)

Join the 20s and 30s Young Members of the AMC's New York / New Jersey chapter for an evening of meeting new friends, catching up with old ones, and preparing for a great season of outdoor activities. Do you enjoy hiking, backpacking, paddling, rock climbing and other outdoor pursuits, and are looking to meet like-minded folks from the greater NYC area? You've found the right event. We hope to see you there. If you need to reach me my number is (914) 525-0770

Climate Justice Social and Procession

Meet at 10 am at Universalist unitarian congregation 67 Church St. Montclair. We will have speakers talking about Climate justice, followed by a procession to St. Lukes Church 73 South Fullerton Ave. Montclair . We will have a ice cream social, dj music and dancing. Environmental groups will be tabling with info on how to heal the planet. Join Ron and Eagle Rock Hikers in supporting fun and a good cause call me for more info if interested 973 965-7578

CONCRETE TO TRAILS: Lamb's Hill and Sloop Brewery Taproom for 20s & 30s

**[>> REGISTER HERE <<](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001JK7J2AW/act00023943)** **Trade sidewalks for dirt paths—no car needed!** **Concrete to Trails** bus trips make it easy to hike, explore, and meet fellow outdoor lovers just beyond the city. No experience required. For this collaborative Concrete to Trails we are going hiking in the Hudson Highlands State Park and then lunch at Sloop Brewing's taproom. This trip is an opportunity try hard and then rest easy... bring your friends - or make some here! Our hike to Lamb's Hill is seldom done because of the tricky parking but it's worth it, featuring several viewpoints. With up to 6 miles and at least 1,200 feet of steady elevation gain, you'll want to be prepared for this this hike! Sloop Brewing Co. will be our stop for food and drinks before returning to New York City. **Trip info:** * Activity rating: difficult side of Moderate * Distance: 6 miles * Vertical gain: 1,200+ feet * Terrain: Uneven, rocky, dirt, hilly * Bathrooms: no official restrooms, Sloop * Breaks: Reasonably spaced **What to Bring:** * Sturdy hiking footwear * Weather appropriate clothing * 2+ liters of water * Lunch and/or snacks * Sun & Bug protection **Registration Details:** * Registration on the AMC website required **[HERE](https://activities.outdoors.org/s/oc-activity/a5UVX000001JK7J2AW/act00023943)** (activites.outdoors.org) is required for each participant. * [Become an Appalachian Mountain Club Member](https://www.outdoors.org/get-involved/become-a-member/?chapter=NY&campaign=7012J000001R5F0QAK) **Meeting Info:** * The group will meet at 7:45 AM; bus departs at 8:00 AM. * Final meeting details will be sent to all registered participants the day prior to the hike. **Cost:** * $10 Appalachian Mountain Club members / $40 non-members **Refund Policy:** * For this trip, a refund is possible if you cancel online one week before the trip and your space can be filled. AMC Health Advisory: Covid and other respiratory illnesses are circulating in our communities. Do not participate in this activity if you, or someone who you have recently been in contact with, is either infected or symptomatic. *[Join the Appalachian Mountain Club](https://www.outdoors.org/get-involved/become-a-member/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=SRCH-BD-Membership&utm_content=646623979096&utm_term=amc%20membership&campaign=701Ht0000021JlHIAU&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19637476529&gbraid=0AAAAADsKo9dnAqa1VJqH3LyYNhdACYyP0&gclid=CjwKCAjw1tLOBhAMEiwAiPkRHjOmW2vC430Svt3FwgGO8z7PBAbPlNSkkAgZ0OM4Md0NcputTWw5qhoC6uQQAvD_BwE&_gl=1*1xcg48k*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3NzU1NzAzNTMuQ2p3S0NBancxdExPQmhBTUVpd0FpUGtSSGpPbVcydkM0MzBTdnQzRndnR084ejdQQkFiUGxOU2trQWdaME9NNE1kME5jcHV0VFd3NXFob0M2dVFRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*MTU1MjExMjMwLjE3NzIyMDE1Mjg.*_ga*MTkxMjY5NzIyMS4xNzQ0ODIyNzcx*_ga_NDC0EQDH7W*czE3NzU1NjUwNTkkbzIzNSRnMSR0MTc3NTU3MDM1MyRqNjAkbDAkaDA.)* *to get your discount today! Your membership supports hundreds of free or low-cost outdoor experiences, thousands of miles of trails, hundreds of thousands of acres of protected wilderness, outdoor leadership education, access to nature for everyone, and your local volunteer leaders*

Autumn At Greenbrook Sanctuary: Naturalist Tour and Scenic Palisades Hike

Reverse Saunter — 34 miles

**Take the Great Saunter Fall Challenge! [Register here](https://shorewalkers.org/join-a-saunter/) to walk 32 miles over 16 days, starting October 3rd. Help Shorewalkers support our parks by donating $10 to participate, with all fees going to the [Riverside Park Conservancy](https://riversideparknyc.org/). This walk will count for *all* of your total miles!** Enjoy a fun & challenging walk along the epic Great Saunter course *in reverse* from East Side ➔ West Side. This walk is offered as part of the **[Great Saunter Fall Challenge](https://shorewalkers.org/great-saunter-fall-challenge/)**. **Meet** 7 am inside Whitehall (Staten Island Ferry) Terminal (2nd level, by the toilets). We start walking @ 7:15. *Check for transit service changes before leaving home!* **Late arrivals** contact a leader; get to a location ahead of the group; tell us where to find you. **End** Whitehall (Staten Island Ferry) Terminal. Congratulations! Eat & drink with us afterwards to celebrate! **Route & Pace**: Starting at Whitehall (Staten Island Ferry) Terminal, we walk north along the east side of Manhattan, enjoy a short break in Inwood Hill Park, then continue south along the west side back to South Ferry. 34 miles at a fast pace (3.5 mph); about 12 hours including toilet & rest stops. **Note** unlike the Great Saunter — an individual challenge you walk at your own pace — we will walk the Reverse Saunter together at a brisk pace. **Map** use the [Great Saunter Digital Map](https://map.shorewalkers.org/) on your mobile device. Grant permission to monitor your location along the route. Use Strava or AllTrails to record your epic adventure. *We will deviate from the May Saunter route at several points.* **Rain date** If heavy rain is forecast, we’ll postpone one week to October 17. **Bring** drinks, hydration salts, snacks, hat, sunscreen, portable charger, and clothing layers to adjust to the day's changing temperatures. Pack sunglasses: *the sun will be in our faces for much of the day due to the reverse course*. **Snacks & Hydration** water fountains are scarce — especially on the East Side. Places to buy drinks & snacks are scarce — especially after Inwood Hill Park. Plan accordingly to prevent dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, etc. *Alert a leader before your supplies run low*. **Toilet Stops** Whitehall Terminal (before walk), St. Vartan Park (E 35th St), Carl Schurz Park (E 84th St), Frederick Johnson Playground (W 150th St), Inwood Hill Park, 72nd St., Pier 84 (44th St), Chelsea Piers, Whitehall Terminal (after walk). *Alert a leader if you need an unscheduled toilet stop*. **Drop-out points** all along the route in case you tire or are unable to keep up with the main group. *Alert a leader if you decide to drop out*. **Preparation, Health, and Safety**: Attempt this walk only after completing the appropriate fitness training in the weeks before the walk. Not suitable for slow walkers. Stay ahead of the sweep. Watch for bikes in both directions. No dogs. Pack a care kit if you're prone to blisters. *Alert a leader if you need to stop to care for your feet or attend to another health concern*. **Achtung** *change your RSVP promptly if you cannot attend*. Habitual late-cancelers & no-shows will be purged from the going list. Look the part by getting your **[Great Saunter Fall Challenge merch](https://bigfroguws.chipply.com/ShorewalkersNY/store.aspx?eid=364394&acid=1777491)** at our store. *Fall Challenge participants*: remember to print your bib with any number you like. **Leader** Dan D [msg on Meetup] **Co-host** Sheila Chung Many thanks to our Aug 29 & Sept 5 advanced scouting volunteers! Event guests must sign Shorewalkers' [Waiver and Release](https://app.waiversign.com/e/659a09c1b851170012c1225c/doc/659a0cdf15c42c0012f2cdc3?eventName=Shorewalker%20Walks%202025) to participate.

Urban Athletics: Tour de Bronx Bike Tour

Yes, I'm cheap AF. That's why I've done the 5 Boro Bike Tour exactly once. Paying more than a Benjamin to ride a bicycle around New York leaves me with a bad taste in my mouth and an even worse feeling in my wallet. I could spend that money on something useful—like 47 slices of pizza. So why pay to ride when you can ride for **FREE**? Come join me for the annual Tour de Bronx, the largest **FREE** organized cycling event in New York State. That's right: zero dollars. Nada. Zip. The price is so low even your inner cheapskate will be impressed. **What's the story?** We've come a long way from Da Bronx of the 1970s. Back then, a tour of the borough might have involved abandoned buildings, burned-out cars, and making eye contact with absolutely nobody. Today, you get 6,000 of your closest strangers, all on bicycles, cruising through historic districts, waterfronts, greenways, parks, and some surprisingly beautiful neighborhoods. And nobody is asking you for money. There are two main routes: 25 miles for those who enjoy cycling but still have other things to do that day, and 40 miles for those of us who apparently have something to prove. Naturally, I'm doing the 40. The route takes us through the south, east, and central Bronx, including Mott Haven, Clason Point along the East River, and Pelham Bay Park, the largest park in New York City, with nearly 3,000 acres of forests, trails, and enough greenery to make you briefly forget you're still in New York. We'll also hit City Island and Orchard Beach along the way. And just when your legs are starting to wonder why you thought this was a good idea, we roll into the New York Botanical Garden for a post-ride music festival. Oh, and there’s free stuff too. **The important stuff!** • It's **FREE**, but don't get too excited and just show up. You **MUST** register in advance to participate. Do that **[HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tour-de-bronx-2026-tickets-1994692075694)**. • You can choose the 25-mile or 40-mile route. I'm doing the 40 because apparently I make poor decisions. • Bringing your kids? There's also a 10-mile family route, so you can introduce the next generation to the joys of cycling without immediately traumatizing them. **How Do I Get There?** This one is ridiculously easy by mass transit. Take the 4 or D train to 161st Street/Yankee Stadium, or Metro-North to 153rd Street/Yankee Stadium. So grab your bike, bring your appetite, and come burn a bunch of calories with me. It's the Bronx. It's 40 miles. It's free. And there is free stuff at the end. Honestly, what more could a cheap bastard ask for?