By hardcore adventurer standards, the northeastern United States might not seem especially heart-stopping. But, the region boasts some truly world-class rock climbing, thru-hiking, and challenging summit opportunities. You just have to know where to look.
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Trek The Long Trail (Vermont)
Following the main ridge of the Green Mountains, Vermont’s Long Trail is a favorite of long-distance hikers. The 272-mile “footpath in the wilderness,” as it’s often called, is deceptively challenging. Thru-hikers face a varied and difficult landscape of rugged peaks, hardwood forests, and unpredictable water crossings. It’s steep with frequent elevation changes and, in the rainy season, almost unbearably wet. But, it’s also home to some of the most beautiful backcountry terrain in the United States. With more than 70 primitive campsites along the way, there are plenty of spots to overnight on what’s typically a 20-day trek end-to-end.
Rock Climbing New River Gorge (West Virginia)
Nevermind whether West Virginia is technically part of The Northeast (it is, by the way). The state hardly gets a passing glance from most travelers. Surprisingly, however, it’s home to some truly world-class rock climbing courtesy of the New River Gorge. The iconic arch bridge over the New River hints at just how awe-inspiring the landscape is here. It’s rugged, challenging, and just plain beautiful. If New River Gorge climbing isn’t yet on your outdoor bucket list, it should be.
Summit Mount Washington (New Hampshire)
On paper, Mount Washington’s 6,288-foot elevation doesn’t sound especially challenging. Compared to the multitude of “fourteeners” in Colorado, for example, New Hampshire’s highest peak might seem like a cute little hill. On a good day, it’s a strenuous but doable climb. On a bad day, it’s literally home to the worst weather on earth. In fact, the highest wind speed ever recorded on the planet was at the summit of Mount Washington: A staggering 231 miles per hour. Yeah, it gets pretty bad. Those eyeing the summit should plan their trek in late summer when the snow and ice are most likely to have thawed. If there’s even the slightest hint of bad weather, however, turn around immediately. Seriously, your life could depend on it.
Hang-Glide the Shawangunk Mountains (New York)
If rock climbing or summitting the highest peak in the Eastern U.S. isn’t quite sexy enough, perhaps you need to go even higher. The Shawangunk Mountains (also called “The Gunks”) provide the perfect backdrop for hiking, caving, and rock climbing. But, more importantly, they’re also home to Mountain Wings Hang Gliding. They’re one of the best outfits in the Northeastern United States to try your hands at gliding, even if you’ve never done it before. For the most scenic ride, plan your inaugural flight in the fall — late September into early October is best — when the leaves are at peak “turn.”