"I felt my lungs inflate with the onrush of scenery—air, mountains, trees, people. I thought, "This is what it is to be happy.” -Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar

Hiking is one of the best ways to get a breath of fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the beauty that is often very close to home. Here are some of my favorite hiking spots in and surrounding the Hudson Valley!

Awosting Falls, Minnewaska State Park

To get to Awosting Falls, it's a short hike from the parking lot. Just follow the red trail and you're good to go! The only downside is walking back up the long, windy road to get back to your car, but this waterfall is definitely worth it.

Bonticou Crag Rock Scramble, Mohonk Preserve

This is a six-mile loop that leads you, quite literally, straight up a mountain. I wouldn't suggest this hike if you have a fear of heights. To get to the top, you have to scramble over fallen rocks and climb through crevices. The trail is marked, and straying from it isn't advised. The view from the top is incredible and it's a perfect spot to stop and eat some lunch. If you're wondering how to get back to the bottom, don't worry, there's an easier descending trail.

For the trail guide, check out this website:

http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/bonticou-crag-table...

Breakneck Ridge, Cold Spring

This hike is similar to Bonticou Craig in that you will be climbing straight up the side of the mountain. While I have seen young kids hiking this, I would suggest leaving them at home for this one. There are four "tops" that you can get to. The first one has flag poles overlooking the Hudson, and it is a popular photo spot. It is quite a long, difficult hike and should not be done after rainfall.

Trail Guide:

http://hikethehudsonvalley.com/breakneck-ridge/

Cornish Estate Trail Loop, Cold Spring

The Cornish Estate was destroyed by a fire in 1956, but the foundation is still intact. I found this trail on accident, starting at Breakneck Mountain, however, the actual trail guide can be found here: http://www.nynjtc.org/hike/east-hudson-highlands-3

Fawns Leap, Hunter

Fawns Leap is located in the Catskills, about an hour and a half away from Middletown, New York. You park your car on the side of the road and walk along the guard rail. Eventually, you'll hear the sound of splashing and people talking, and you've arrived. Cliff jumping is popular here, but if you're not up for that, it's still a beautiful spot to go on a hot summer day.

Kaaterskill Falls, Hunter

Up the road a few miles is one of the highest waterfalls in New York, coming in at 260 feet. Careful if you go to the very top, the rocks are very slippery and in the past people have fallen down the falls, but don't let that stop you from visiting this gorgeous place! It's an easy hike, and there are a few smaller waterfalls at the beginning.