Upcoming EventsOutdoor activities pose a lower risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus than indoor activities, while providing great views, fresh air, and the sounds and smells of nature. Being outdoors can decrease feelings of stress, anxiety and depression, and improve your mood. Studies indicate the isolation caused by the pandemic has intensified these feelings for many. For people who have been isolated, the warmer weather brings welcome opportunities to socialize safely outside. Exploring the many beautiful parks, hiking areas and waterfronts in our area provides important physical and psychological benefits.
Getting moderate exercise, whether it’s a brisk walk or a more rigorous hike along hilly trails, provides many physical benefits. These include lowering your risk of heart disease, diabetes and blood pressure; boosting bone density; building strength in your hips and legs; improving your balance, and helping to control your weight.
Here are some ideas to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. Even if everyone in your group isn’t vaccinated yet, you can mask up, stay socially distanced and enjoy one another’s company!
- Rockland County has a wealth of parks for walking, hiking and observing nature. For example, Bear Mountain State Park offers fishing, picnicking, swimming, boating, ball fields, basketball courts, hiking paths, and bike trails. Or you can hike to Buttermilk Falls, enjoying scenic over-looks and an area at the base of the falls for picnicking and photography.
- You can also find a wide range of parks in Orange County and Westchester to enjoy hiking, swimming, stunning views, and wildlife.
- For river views, visit Haverstraw for camping and fishing; Nyack for sailing or tubing; Piermont for canoeing through the marshes; and Stony Point for amazing river views and historical sites.
- You’ll find plenty of information about hiking in our area including up-to-date trail maps, guidesn and resources, CLICK HERE. You can choose a hike by level of difficulty, hike features (such as whether biking is allowed) and find out if dogs are allowed.
Before heading out to enjoy the natural beauty of our local parks, hiking trails, and nature reserves, check the websites for the latest information about hours and any restrictions.
