The Beat

First Trail in U.S. Designed Specifically for Autism Spectrum Disorder Communities and Families

Project Supported By More Than $3.3 Million in Private Funds

Photos Available Here

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the nation's first nature trail specifically designed to address the sensory needs of those with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities is open at Letchworth State Park in western New York State. Supported by more than $3.3 million in private fundraising, the new Autism Nature Trail is a one-mile hiking loop that includes eight marked sensory stations, each designed to address a different sensory experience in a safe and supportive environment.

$1.2 Million Project Will Improve 2.5 Miles of the Erie Canalway Trail in the Mohawk Valley

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is rehabilitating a 2.5-mile section of the Empire State Trail from the City of Little Falls to Herkimer Home State Historic Site, in Herkimer County. The trail segment is also part of the Erie Canalway Trail.

"The Empire State Trail is the ideal destination to enjoy our state's scenic beauty and extraordinary history, and we are continuing to invest in making the trail even more inviting for healthy outdoor activities," Governor Hochul said. "Outdoor recreation is a big economic engine for our state, and for countless vendors along the trail's path who rely on the tourism year-round, and projects like this help to ensure the long-term vitality of our regional economies."…

DEC Encourages New Yorkers to Avoid Crowded Destinations and Recreate Responsibly during State's Ongoing Response to COVID-19

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today is encouraging outdoor enthusiasts to explore less-traveled destinations instead of crowded hotspots while following the principles of Leave No Trace. In anticipation of visitors looking to get outside over the upcoming holiday weekend, Commissioner Seggos called on visitors to do their part to protect all State Lands for future generations by packing out what they bring in and not leaving litter behind. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, DEC is also reminding hikers and visitors to use common sense guidelines for smart and safe recreation, including incorporating social distancing and wearing a face mask, planning trips ahead, choosing a destination close to home, and visiting at off hours. …

Prepare for Arduous Conditions; Pack out your Trash; Avoid Sensitive Ecology; Respect Fellow Visitors and Those Working to Protect Our Wild Places

With the recent increase in outdoor recreation leading to record numbers of visitors to areas of the Adirondack and Catskill Parks and issues with trash and unprepared hikers causing impacts to natural resources, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded hikers and other visitors to the High Peaks Wilderness to follow the common-sense rules and recommendations in place to protect public safety and the sensitive plants and wildlife. These measures are in place to promote a shared respect for the resources, as well as respect for other visitors and the workers and volunteers tasked with protecting the Adirondacks, Catskills, and the forests, trails, lakes, and rivers throughout the State.

9th Annual Event Encourages Families and Friends to Spend Jan. 1 Holiday Enjoying Nature at State Parks, Historic Sites, Wildlife Areas and Public Lands

New Yorkers can greet 2020 with a choice of 85 guided hikes at state parks, historic sites, wildlife areas, trails and public lands sponsored by the state Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation and the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).

Now in its ninth year, the annual First Day Hikes program includes a variety of events, from seal watches along an Atlantic Ocean bay and a bird count in the Capital Region, to hikes to fire towers in the Adirondacks/Catskills, along parts of the historic New York City drinking water system in the Hudson Valley, waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region and historic forts along the Great Lakes.

Free Whiteface-Lake Placid Hiker Shuttle Will Run Weekends through Columbus Day Weekend

Lake Placid, NY - Autumn is one of the busiest times of year on the Adirondack mountains and trails. Families and guests visit the region from throughout the Northeast and around the world to enjoy the unparalleled splendor of the beautiful Adirondacks bursting with fall foliage.

Finger Lakes Region boasts over 75 hiking and biking trails

Pittsford, N.Y. - The American Hiking Society has designated the first Saturday in June - this year, June 1, 2019 - as National Trails Days®, a day of public events aimed at advocacy and trail service. The public is invited to hike, bike, run, birdwatch, clean up and more along public lands and trails, with numerous events taking place throughout the Finger Lakes region and even more hiking and biking trails available to explore on one's own.