Rhododendron Hike

On this 10-mile day hike we will traverse through a variety of unique terrain and vegetation. This double-loop trail undulates over low climbs and shallow valleys.

The most notable flora will be the extensive rhododendron groves, which create a mystical, almost prehistoric feel. Meander through this grove of giant, glossy leaves, twisted, spindly trunks and branches that extend like arms over the trail. In June and July, the trees will flower and you will see the spectacular, multi-colored blossoms.

We will also pass through a group of hemlock trees, the last stand of virgin timber in the area. After lunch at the lake, we will walk past an Atlantic White Cedar swamp, notable for being so far from their native coastal habitat.

Event Intensity Level

This hike is marked as intensity level 3. In this moderate ten-mile hike, there will be undulating climbs but nothing too steep. There are many fun ground obstacles — walking bridges, planks and logs over swampy areas. Hiking boots or trail shoes are strongly recommended. Read a full description of all levels.

Event details

• Departure 9:00 AM
• Check-in Please arrive by 8:45 am for check-in. Please check weekend subway schedules! Our trips leave on time.
• Return Approximately 5:00 PM
• Location NE corner of 73 and Broadway, in front of Apple Bank (1/2/3 to 72nd St.)
• Bring Lunch and 2 liters water (minimum per person)
• Wear Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking boots

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All Outdoor Bound guides are licensed and experienced and trained to assist hikers as well as educate. All guides hold First Aid and CPR Certifications. Please be honest with yourself about your physical capabilities to choose an intensity level appropriate to your fitness level. You will get more enjoyment out of your day!

Experienced, Fun & Qualified Guides

From cycling across the United States to leading horse treks through New Zealand to scaling Nepalese peaks, Outdoor Bound guides have real-world outdoor experience. Collectively, they have hiked, biked, climbed and kayaked tens of thousands of miles around the globe.

Whether their professional backgrounds are as teachers, personal trainers, artists, environmentalists or business leaders, they all have an extensive knowledge of the natural world and local history. Each guide has also passed a rigorous guide certification program and is trained in wilderness first aid or as a Wilderness First Responder.

Diverse & Interesting Groups

There is no typical Outdoor Bound participant. While ages typically range from 20 to 50, those who come to experience outdoor adventure range from singles to couples, from lawyers to waiters. They are a mix of women and men. While the group is always diverse, you will certainly feel welcome. Our guides go the extra mile to make the atmosphere of each trip social and fun. Many people in the Outdoor Bound community have forged lasting friendships as a result of our trips.

New Experiences

Skydiving, ice-climbing, hot-air ballooning, skiing and hiking every weekend are just a few of Outdoor Bound’s year-round adventures. These trips are accessible to everyone, including the novice, who might feel a little uneasy, the young urban professional trying to get away and even the adrenaline junkie looking for a new rush.

Environmental Awareness

“Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures,” is the Leave No Trace motto embraced by Outdoor Bound. From purchasing bamboo T-shirts to printing with soy-based inks on recycled paper, Outdoor Bound strives to create the least environmental impact possible while on trips and in the office.