Hudson Fjord Peak Adventure: The Double Double Eight

I’ve always appreciated the beauty of the Hudson Highlands, especially when fall foliage is at its peak. I was in the area in late October, so I reached out to Ripitz to see if he wanted to trek in the Highlands during my visit. His response was positive and he had an idea for an incredible adventure.

early morning Hudson River crossing launch
Preparing to launch

I found myself on an early morning Hudson River crossing using inflatable paddle boards. We launched from Little Stony Point Park just north of Cold Spring. The air was hovering around freezing, but the water was still relatively warm (low 60s). The marine forecast called for calm winds, minimal current and abundant sunshine. It seemed we had prime conditions to start our day with an easy river crossing.

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Black Bear Mountain in Inlet NY

Continuing the theme from our last adventure, Farah and I wanted more Adirondacks. This time we were not alone though, planning the weekend with our friends Alex and Katie. What started as a very ambitious plan for some fall camping, soon turned to the more reasonable plan of a nice autumn hike. It had been some time since I was on the top of Black Bear mountain in Inlet, and it was looking like the perfect day to ascend.

Black Bear Mountain trail map
Black Bear Mountain trail map courtesy CNY Hiking

Black Bear is down the road from Bald Mountain along route 28. It’s longer and more difficult than Bald. The trail forms a 4.9 mile lollipop with two choices to the top: the steeper blue trail and the longer but more mellow yellow trail.

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Mountain Bike World Cup at Mount van Hoevenberg

I was at Mount van Hoevenberg for two days for the final UCI mountain bike World Cup weekend. I didn’t make it over to Whiteface for the downhill races. On Friday, I was a volunteer, and on Saturday, I returned as a spectator.

Short Course Men's podium

Why volunteer at ORDA events? It can be fun, and every day that you volunteer, you get a voucher that’s good at any of the ORDA venues.

When my kiddo visits from NJ, there will be free trail passes at the Ho. Same thing if a friend visits and wants to go to Whiteface.

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