Minnewaska Quick/Fast by John Pasmore

There aren’t that many good day hikes within an hour from NYC. But, one of the best is Lake Minnewaska. It’s year-round option with hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, cross country skiing and camping all nearby. And the trail to Lake Awosting is just a bonus.

Got out for a post-Christmas excursion with brother-in-law. And, of course, testing some gear for some eventual bigger trip (Greenland). All good. Great gear store there in New Paltz, Rock and Snow, def worth stopping through. Did the short loop around the lake — a little snow — was hoping for some x-cross country skiing but rain wiped that option off the map. For now. Rock and Snow rents ski’s — so just waiting for the snow.

iTopoMaps was ready if needed (wasn’t needed) downloaded Quad night before. Otter Defender Case also seemed fine in 30 degree weather, though having to take gloves off to motivate the iPhone will become a pain point in anything much colder.