Looking for some excitement this summer? Look no further than the Hudson Valley for a variety of outdoor adventures daring enough to please any thrill seeker. From zip lining to rock climbing to kayaking, the Hudson Valley has tons in the way of summer fun to offer adventurous visitors. Here are a few of our favorites:
Rock Climbing the Shawangunk Mountains
The Gunks have been attracting climbers since 1935, and is now considered the busiest climbing region in the U.S. There are four licensed rock climbing guides in the area who can teach you the requisite techniques you need before beginning a climb— like how to grip your hands, etc. Climbers are also equipped with helmets, harnesses, and special shoes. A day trip typically costs around $280 for one person; rates are lower for large groups.
Alpine Endeavors, Rosendale; www.alpineendeavors.com
Eastern Mountain Sports, New Paltz; www.emsclimb.com
High Xposure Adventures, Gardiner; www.high-xposure.com
Mountain Skills, Gardiner; www.mountainskills.biz
Hang Gliding over the Hudson Valley
Located next to Sam’s Point Preserve on the Shawangunk Ridge, the town of Ellenville is known the world over for its ideal hang gliding conditions.
Fly High Hang Gliding, Pine Bush; www.flyhighhg.com
Mountain Wings, Ellenville; www.mtnwings.com
Kayaking
Explore the Hudson River or Rondout Creek by kayak. Several certified kayak instructors in the area offer lessons to improve your proficiency and confidence on the water.
Storm King Adventure Tours, Cornwall-on-Hudson; www.stormkingadventuretours.com
Hudson Valley Outfitters, Cold Spring; www.hudsonvalleyoutfitters.com
Atlantic Kayak Tours, Saugerties; www.atlantickayaktours.com
A Day Away Kayak Rentals, Kingston; www.takeadayaway.net
Zipline Canopy Tours at Hunter Mountain
Soar high over the beautiful terrain of the Northern Catskills and take in views from 600 feet above the ground! Hunter Mountain features 6 ziplines, 4 rope bridges, 9 aerial tree platforms and a rappel. Open daily; reservations required; cost: $89-$129
Hunter Mountain, Hunter; http://www.huntermtn.com/summer/zipline/
Hot Air Ballooning over the Hudson Valley
If you’re searching for extreme heights, how about a hot air balloon ride? A typical ride lasts for one hour and offers some stunning views.
Above the Clouds, Middletown; www.abovethecloudsinc.com
Fantasy Balloon Flight, Inc., Middletown; www.fantasyfliers.com
Wandering Winds Hot Air Balloon Adventure, Middletown; www.wanderingwindshotairballoons.com
Blue Sky Balloons, Beacon; www.blueskyballoons.com
The Balloon Bed and Breakfast, Hudson; www.balloonbedandbreakfast.com
New York Balloon Rides, various locations; www.balloonridesovernewyork.com
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