Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Where do you hike?

A: The New York Ramblers generally hike within a two-hour radius of Manhattan by bus, train, or car. There is a broad variety of destinations; one of the things that distinguishes the NY Ramblers from other hiking clubs in the area is that we try to explore all of them over time whereas other clubs concentrate in certain areas. Selected hikes are posted on this website.

Q: How often do you hike?

A: We hike every Sunday, with the occasional Saturday city hike or other event.

Q: How many are there on a hike?

A: There are usually between five and ten of us on a hike, no more than twenty.

Q: How long and strenuous are the hikes?

A: Although the NY Ramblers hike at a moderate pace, hikes can be quite strenuous. They are generally 6 to 8 hours (not including the transportation time), 14 to 16 miles (or more), and can include significant ups and downs. This is advanced level hiking - you should be hiking regularly already and know you limits. Having said this, the club does offer a series of city hikes that welcomes hikers at all levels. Not only are these hikes more leisurely, but, because these hikes are in the city, it is often possible to drop out by catching public transportation. Furthermore, by talking with others on these hikes, it is a good way to learn more about hiking in the New York area.

Q: Where do you meet?

A: We generally meet in Manhattan (Port Authority Bus Terminal, Grand Central Station, George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal, etc.) at a point convenient to public transportation; wherever feasible, we utilize public transportation for our hikes. The meeting point is noted in the hike's description on the hike schedule. Because of possible last minute changes, hike leaders usually do not arrange to meet drivers at the trailhead.

Q: When do you meet? When do you disperse?

A: We usually meet between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. at the meeting point and disperse between 7:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. or later after the return from the hike, depending on the time of year (the sun sets later in the summer than it does in the winter enabling later hikes) and the distance from New York, mode of transportation, transportation schedule, etc. We try to make a full day of it.

Q: How does one join the club? What does it cost?

A: Membership dues are $4.00 a year for individuals and $5.00 for couples. There is a onetime initiation fee of $1.00. Those wishing to join the NY Ramblers must first attend two hikes as a guest and then submit a membership application. To be a guest, you may accompany a member of the club or ask the leader beforehand.