5.7 miles – moderate – varied – Info Nancy B., 631-682-0035. Hike around the 120-acre pond in the middle of Blydenburgh Park. Bring drinks and snack. Rain or shine, although extreme weather cancels. Meet at the south entrance of Blydenburgh County Park, opposite the County Offices on NY 347 in the parking lot just east (above) the Entrance Booth [old police station] Enjoy a chocolate snack when we take a rest! Hike end time is approximate.

4 miles, 8 miles or 10 mile options - 1000 ft Elevation Gain - Moderate to Strenuous Difficulty - 3 MPH pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come end Spooktober season with a walk through West Hills County Park and West Hills County Preserve. Explore the hills and regale in the tales of Mt. Misery and Sweet Hollow Road! Race sunset if you dare! The first four miles will be exploring the Jayne’s Hill area with an option to drop off after 4 miles, followed by four miles exploring the western side of the park with an option to drop off after eight miles. Finally, we will finish with a loop through the southern preserve section. Plenty of water and snacks are strongly recommended. Heavy rain cancels. If unsure, please contact me on the morning of the hike. Address: 220 Sweet Hollow Road, Melville NY 11747. Hike end time is approximate.

6 miles – moderate – flat, some sand – PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL Sal, 631-235-2059, or E: sailingsals60@gmail.com. Join us for a walk at Fire Island National Seashore to the Lighthouse and beyond towards Atlantique; we’ll wind through quaint beach towns along streets, boardwalks and some beaches (tides permitting) before returning; sneakers will suffice for this hike; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; take Robert Moses Causeway south to end; enter the traffic circle, take 2nd right towards Parking Field 5; meet at east end of Field 5 near the boardwalk entrance. Possible parking fee. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

~2 mi. - 1+ hr. - mostly flat but some steep inclines near the water hole. Reservations required: call Jane 631-689-1568. Find out about the threat to this preserve and steps you can take to help keep it. Stop by the water hole to hear about its significance as a water recharge and for wildlife. Learn about the farm-to-fields-to-woodlands transitioning happening here and learn why some fields remain open while others disappear. Learn about some native and non-native plants, the birds (mostly by the fields), and animal tracks. Restrooms may NOT be open. Beverage suggested. Rain cancels. Park at the far end of the drive at the far-right side of the preserve. Address: 72 S. Woods Rd. Hike end time is approximate.

4 to 5 miles-moderate - flat - PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. A moderately fast hike over gently varied terrain paralleling the river, opening to a picturesque beach with scenic views of Moriches Bay and Fire Island National Seashore; after hiking along the beach, we will return to the trails to complete the loop; hiking shoes recommended; bring ample water, snacks and a smile; binoculars/cameras for wildlife viewing optional. From L.I.E. Exit 68 or NY 27 Exit 58S, take William Floyd Parkway south to Montauk Hwy. (C.R. 80); turn left, and in 2.9 miles keep right to stay on Montauk; continue another 2.1 miles to Kalers Pond Park parking lot, opposite Terrell River Park. GPS: 1 Chet Swezey Rd, Center Moriches, NY 11934. No parking fee. Heavy rain cancels, light rain does not. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

5.7 miles – moderate – varied – Info Nancy B., 631-682-0035. Hike around the 120-acre pond in the middle of Blydenburgh Park. Bring drinks and snack. Rain or shine, although extreme weather cancels. Meet at the south entrance of Blydenburgh County Park, opposite the County Offices on NY 347 in the parking lot just east (above) the Entrance Booth [old police station] Enjoy a chocolate snack when we take a rest! Hike end time is approximate.

4.5 to 5 miles – moderate –PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. Explore several trails in the pine barrens of this county park, featuring the Sans Souci Lakes and abundant wildlife; bring water, snacks and a smile; hiking shoes recommended; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; no restroom facilities available; meet at the Bayport trailhead; from NY 27 Exit 50 eastbound or Exit 51 westbound, go south on Broadway Ave. to Montauk Hwy.; go left about 1/4 mile, and left again onto Lakeview Ave (Girl Scout Way), opposite Speedway Gas; Sans Souci Bayport trailhead sign will be on your left after about 1/4 mile); park on the park side and meet at park sign; No parking fee. GPS: 468 Lakeview Ave, Bayport, NY 11705. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

4.5 to 5 miles – moderate – flat – PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. Meet at the new Welcome Center/ Restrooms for a brisk hike in this South Shore hidden jewel encompassing 690 acres along the picturesque Connetquot River; bring water, snacks, and a smile; trail shoes recommended; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; Take Southern State Pkwy. Exit 45E, continue east on Montauk Hwy. 1/2 mile to entrance on the right, or NY 27 to Connetquot Ave., turn south, to Montauk Hwy. and left to the Arboretum; Possible parking fee. GPS: 440 Montauk Hwy, Great River, NY 11739. Optional lunch. Hike end time is approximate.

1.5 hr. - only one slow incline; sandy; slow to moderate pace. Reservations required: call Jane 631-689-1568. From the main building (restroom there), walk to the animal cages to observe the wild animals that cannot be released back into the wild before heading through woods to the dwarf pine section. On the way back, see and learn about the earthen dams and why they were built. While walking, learn about wintergreen, blueberries, bear berry, dwarf oak, dwarf pines, pitch pine and more plants, drainage in this sandy soil, the water in the ponds, and more. Beverage suggested. Rain cancels. Park across the street from the buildings. Hike end time is approximate.

10.6 miles – Fast – Hills - Info: Text or call Fran, 631-806-5078. Come explore the wild beauty of Long Island’s North Shore! Our hike will wind along the shimmering Sound, through tidal marshes, and beside the banks of the Nissequogue. In the woods, we’ll tackle both Cardiac and Snake Hills—because what’s an adventure without a little climb? Meet at Field 3 by the bathrooms. No entry fee at this time of year. Bring water, lunch, snacks and a good spirit. Heavy rain cancels, but a light shower just adds to the fun! Hike end time is approximate.

Approx. 13 miles – fast – varied –Info: Jeff, 631-902-3156, or e: jeffgreenberger@mac.com. With the feasting season upon us, it’ll be a perfect morning for a big out-and-back on the Pine Barrens trail, with the delightfully unkempt blue loop between the halves. Bring water and snacks. Meet at the Spinney Road parking area on route 24 in Flanders (look for Spinney Rd Trail Parking on Google Maps). Inclement weather cancels, so call or text me to be sure. Fast pace, only one quick stop for snacks! Hike end time is approximate.

5.3 miles – fast – hilly.  Info: Tammy, 631-896-1409, between 6-9pm. We’ll do the first few miles of the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail by continuing past Route 108 to Stillwell Lane, then we’ll turn around and retrace our steps.  This trail has some nice hills to make sure we get a great workout.  This is not a beginner hike.  Bring water and trail snacks, and a hiking pole is recommended. Heavy rain cancels, light rain may not; call morning of hike if unsure.  Directions:  We’ll meet at the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trailhead on Harbor Rd. (NY25A), in the unpaved parking lot adjacent to the Cold Spring Harbor Library. Hike end time is approximate.

4 miles - moderate – varied - Info: Janet 631-288-6884 or 631-871-7240 before 9 pm. We will walk a loop on the Paumanok Path, Blue, Yellow & Red Trails of the Rocky Point Pine Barrens State Forest. Bring water, snack, and meet at the DEC parking lot on the south side of NY 25A, east of North Country Road and west of C.R. 21, across from Rolling Oaks Golf Course and Stop & Shop supermarket. Rain cancels. Hike end time is approximate.

4 to 5 miles - 250 to 300 ft Elevation Gain - Light to Moderate Difficulty - 2.5 to 3MPH Pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come hike through the beautiful Planting Fields Arboretum. We will meet in the West Parking Lot before the Sensory Garden. We will walk the grounds before heading into the trails through the woods by the Hope Goddard Preserve. Bring plenty of water, snacks and appropriate footwear. Heavy rain cancels. If unsure, please contact me on the morning of the hike. Address: 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. Hike end time is approximate.

6 miles – moderate – flat, some sand – PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL Sal, 631-235-2059, or E: sailingsals60@gmail.com. Join us for a walk at Fire Island National Seashore to the Lighthouse and beyond towards Atlantique; we’ll wind through quaint beach towns along streets, boardwalks and some beaches (tides permitting) before returning; sneakers will suffice for this hike; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; take Robert Moses Causeway south to end; enter the traffic circle, take 2nd right towards Parking Field 5; Possible parking fee. Meet at the east end of Field 5 near the boardwalk entrance. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

3+ mi. - 2 hrs. - rolling & flat – moderate pace. Reservations required: call Jane 631-689-1568. This 550-acre plot of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds is Nassau County's largest nature preserve. Hear about and see the ruins of the King Zog mansion. Learn about some of the many native and non-native plants on the grounds. If it recently rained, the ground will be wet and slippery. Restrooms may not be open. Beverage suggested. Rain cancels. Meet at the Bill Patterson Nature Center. Address: 38 Muttontown LANE (off route 25A in E. Norwich). Hike end time is approximate.

4 to 5 miles-moderate - flat - PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. A moderately fast hike over gently varied terrain paralleling the river, opening to a picturesque beach with scenic views of Moriches Bay and Fire Island National Seashore; after hiking along the beach, we will return to the trails to complete the loop; hiking shoes recommended; bring ample water, snacks and a smile; binoculars/cameras for wildlife viewing optional. from L.I.E. Exit 68 or NY 27 Exit 58S, take William Floyd Parkway south to Montauk Hwy. (C.R. 80); turn left, and in 2.9 miles keep right to stay on Montauk; continue another 2.1 miles to Kalers Pond Park parking lot, opposite Terrell River Park. No parking fee. GPS: 1 Chet Swezey Rd, Center Moriches, NY 11934. No parking fee. Heavy rain cancels, light rain does not. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

5.7 miles – moderate – varied – Info Nancy B., 631-682-0035. Hike around the 120-acre pond in the middle of Blydenburgh Park. Bring drinks and snack. Rain or shine, although extreme weather cancels. Meet at the south entrance of Blydenburgh County Park, opposite the County Offices on NY 347 in the parking lot just east (above) the Entrance Booth [old police station] Enjoy a chocolate snack when we take a rest! Hike end time is approximate.

4 miles – moderate – varied – Info: Tom I., text 631-793-4011, Greencay631@gmail.com. We will hike the portion of the L.I. Greenbelt Trail through this wooded and historic preserve and take other trails to complete a loop; bring water, tick protection; more than light rain cancels; text me to let me know you are planning to join the hike to receive updates or cancelation info; meet at information kiosk by parking lot; address: 581 West Jericho Turnpike, Smithtown, NY 11787. Hike end time is approximate.

2.3 mi. - 2 hrs.- flat - slow to moderate pace. Reservations required: call Jane 631-689-1568. Walk the woods along the edge of the park, first passing a cove off Flanders Bay, then along the bay itself, then along a dry path before crossing the campgrounds. Learn about shore erosion, marsh and marsh wildlife, birds that live in and visit the woods, and whatever other natural things we encounter. Restrooms usually open. Beverage suggested. Rain cancels. The park is east of CR 105, north of rte. 24, south of rte. 58, and just north of the golf center. Park in the woody area on the right across from the first block buildings on your left. Hike end time is approximate.

6.5 miles - 300 to 400 ft Elevation Gain - Light to Moderate Difficulty - 3MPH Pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Meet by the Bill Paterson Nature Center (entrance by Locust Lane). Join us on a hike around the grounds of the Chelsea Estate and former Winthrop Mansion. We will hike through Nassau County’s largest preserve and see some of the old ruins of the previous owners. Trails can be uneven and tight in some areas; appropriate clothing is advised. Bring plenty of water and some snacks! There is also one road crossing midway to two thirds into the hike. Heavy rain cancels. If unsure, please contact me the morning of the hike. Address: 1861 Muttontown Rd, Oyster Bay, NY 11771. Hike end time is approximate.

4-5 miles, PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. Slower paced, flat, wooded with some sand. Registration Requested. Wildlife Viewing: Morton Refuge is an ideal spot for wildlife watching while hiking the Wild Birds Nature Trail and along the beach at low tide (hard packed sand). Wildlife has become acclimated to visitors and often go about their day without a second glance. Eastern wild turkeys, songbirds and chipmunks all can be seen along the wooded sections of the trail. Osprey can be seen flying overhead hunting for fish in the bay. In the winter, large groups of black ducks, bufflehead and common goldeneye can be seen floating in the bay. An elevated platform at the beach allows visitors an outstanding view of Little Peconic Bay, Noyack Bay and Jessup’s Neck Peninsula’s wildlife species. Possible parking fee. GPS: 2595 Noyack Road, Sag Harbor, NY 11963. Heavy rain cancels, light rain does not. Optional lunch afterwards. Carpool available from Sayville. Hike end time is approximate.

2 mi. - ~ 1.5 hr. - a few moderate inclines - slow to moderate pace. Reservations required: call Jane 631-689-1568. rom the toll booth, walk to the restrooms in the mansion then take the red trail through woods, crossing streams and then on to a nearly flat path. Along the way, various flora will be pointed out as will signs of animals including the smell of a fox, if he’s around. After viewing the pond and talking about its purpose, you can take a visit to the exhibits on the first floor of the mansion. Beverage suggested. Rain cancels. Hike end time is approximate.

4.5 to 5 miles – moderate –PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. Explore several trails in the pine barrens of this county park, featuring the Sans Souci Lakes and abundant wildlife; bring water, snacks and a smile; hiking shoes recommended; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; no restroom facilities available; meet at the Bayport trailhead; from NY 27 Exit 50 eastbound or Exit 51 westbound, go south on Broadway Ave. to Montauk Hwy.; go left about 1/4 mile, and left again onto Lakeview Ave (Girl Scout Way), opposite Speedway Gas; Sans Souci Bayport trailhead sign will be on your left after about 1/4 mile); park on the park side and meet at park sign; No parking fee. GPS: 468 Lakeview Ave, Bayport, NY 11705. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

5 miles – flat – moderate – Info: Tom I., text 631-793-4011, Greencay631@gmail.com. A morning hike on a portion of the L.I. Greenbelt Trail from the Westbook complex in Great River to Connetquot State Park Preserve; we will follow the L.I. Trail to the fish hatchery, then the red trail on the way back to Westbook; more than light rain or snow cancels; bring water; text me to let me know you are planning to join the hike to receive updates or cancelation info; meet at the Westbrook sports complex on Wheeler Road, access from Montauk Highway (north side), about a 1/3 mile east of the entrance to the Bayard Cutting Arboretum; GPS to 1 Wheeler Road, Great River will get you to the adjacent soccer fields, which is next to the trailhead. Hike end time is approximate.

4.5 to 5 miles – moderate – flat – PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. Meet at the new Welcome Center/ Restrooms for a brisk hike in this South Shore hidden jewel encompassing 690 acres along the picturesque Connetquot River; bring water, snacks, and a smile; trail shoes recommended; heavy rain cancels, light rain does not; Take Southern State Pkwy. Exit 45E, continue east on Montauk Hwy. 1/2 mile to entrance on the right, or NY 27 to Connetquot Ave., turn south, to Montauk Hwy. and left to the Arboretum; GPS: 440 Montauk Hwy, Great River, NY 11739. Possible parking fee. Optional lunch. Hike end time is approximate.

10 to 11 miles - 750 ft Elevation Gain - Strenuous Difficulty - 3 MPH pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come join for a loop around Blydenburgh County Park and Caleb Smith State Park. We will meet in Blydenburgh and loop around the lake before heading up and crossing into Caleb Smith State Park. Bring plenty of water and some snacks! Heavy rain cancels. If unsure, please contact me the morning of the hike. There is a road crossing involved in the hike. We will meet by the boat ramp. Address: Veteran's Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11788. Hike end time is approximate.

Approx. 10 miles - fast - varied - Info: Jeff, 631-902-3156, or e: jeffgreenberger@mac.com. As the foliage thins for the coming winter season, we can again feast our eyes on several water views in the Flanders Woods and Hubbard Marsh. On our loop we’ll check out Bellows, House, Division, Sears, and Owl Ponds, then the grassy wetlands fringing Flanders Bay. Bring water and snacks. Meet at Sears-Bellows County Park, Bellows Pond Rd. in Hampton Bays. Fast pace, only one quick stop for snacks. Inclement weather cancels, so call or text to be sure! Hike end time is approximate.

4 to 5 miles-moderate - flat - PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. A moderately fast hike over gently varied terrain paralleling the river, opening to a picturesque beach with scenic views of Moriches Bay and Fire Island National Seashore; after hiking along the beach, we will return to the trails to complete the loop; hiking shoes recommended; bring ample water, snacks and a smile; binoculars/cameras for wildlife viewing optional. from L.I.E. Exit 68 or NY 27 Exit 58S, take William Floyd Parkway south to Montauk Hwy. (C.R. 80); turn left, and in 2.9 miles keep right to stay on Montauk; continue another 2.1 miles to Kalers Pond Park parking lot, opposite Terrell River Park. GPS: 1 Chet Swezey Rd, Center Moriches, NY 11934. No parking fee. Heavy rain cancels, light rain does not. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

9 to 10 miles - 1100 ft Elevation Gain - Strenuous Difficulty - 2.5+ MPH pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come hike through the hilly northern end of the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail as we move through Cold Spring Harbor State Park, Uplands Farm Sanctuary, Trail View State Park and Stillwell Woods Preserve. We will loop back in Stillwell Woods and finish where we started. Water and food are essential here. Hiking footwear and trekking poles are recommended. We will meet in the parking lot of Cold Spring Harbor State Park, by the trailhead signage. Heavy rain or snow cancels. If following a period of rain in previous days, we might alter hike length for a safer trip. If unsure of the conditions, contact me prior to the hike. Address: 95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor NY 11724. Hike end time is approximate.

Our annual tradition, the Holiday Hike & Pot-Luck Open House will be held on Sunday, December 14, from 12 noon to 4 PM. We hope to see many old friends and some new friends to share a festive meal (starting at 1 PM) at the Blydenburgh-Weld House in Blydenburgh County Park (north entrance on New Mill Road). Prior to the party, work up an appetite by taking a short hike on part of our Stump Pond Loop (begins 12 noon). If you can supply a dish for the festivities or wish to help prep the food, please give us a call at 631-360-0753 and leave a message, so we can better plan the day. We always have a good time. Come share this one with us!

11 miles – Fast – Hills - Info: Text or call Fran, 631-806-5078. Wander the quieter trails and hidden corners of the Greenbelt. Along the way, you’ll climb forested hills, cross marshlands, and discover treasures like the historic St. Johnland Cemetery and the ghostly remains of the old Kings Park fire tower. We’ll gather at Field 3 by the bathroom. Bring water, lunch, snacks and a sense of adventure. No entry fee at this time of year. Heavy rain cancels, but a light drizzle only adds to the story! Hike end time is approximate.

4-5 MILES. PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. One of the crown jewels of the Long Island Greenbelt system, this preserve maintains 3,473 acres of land and water for the protection and propagation of game birds, fish, animals, and 50 miles of trail through the park. Formerly a private sportsman's club, this lightly used area is a classic pine barrens system, featuring a canopy of pitch pine and several varieties of oak. The Connetquot River flows gently through the center of the park, affording opportunities to observe ospreys, herons, egrets, kingfishers, river otters, & a host of other species. Near the entrance is a grist mill from the early 1700s & the large Sportsmen's Club, parts of which were built in the early 1800s. A mile north, a trout hatchery built over a century ago, is still in operation. We will meet at Westbrook Sports Complex Ball Fields, (GPS Address: 1 Wheeler Rd, Great River, NY 11739) and follow the L.I. Trail to a catwalk under Sunrise Hwy and into Connetquot River State Park Preserve. After a rest stop at the Main House, we'll continue north on trails paralleling the river. We will visit the hatchery before continuing to Bunces Bridge, then head south to complete the loop. Bring ample water and snacks. There is no parking fee at Westbrook. Heavy rain cancels; light rain does not. Lunch TBD. Hike end time is approximate.

7 miles - 600 ft Elevation Gain - Moderate Difficulty - 3 MPH pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come celebrate the holidays in Caumsett by bringing out your ugliest festive sweater as we saunter through the woods! Ugly Sweaters not required but encouraged! We will meet in front of the Park Offices by the entrance station. We will be walking on a mix of uneven trails through the woods, unpaved roads and paved paths. There will be some steep hills along our path. Bring plenty of water, snacks and appropriate footwear. Heavy rain or snow cancels. If unsure, please contact me the morning of the hike. Address: 95 Harbor Road, Cold Spring Harbor NY 11724. Hike end time is approximate.

4.5-5 miles – moderate – varied to hilly – PRIOR Registration Requested. CALL or E: Sal, 631-235-2059, or sailingsals60@gmail.com. A moderately paced hike along the hilly bluffs of Sunken Meadow and the Nissequogue River features picturesque views of the Long Island Sound, and Connecticut. Bring water, snacks and a smile. Restrooms at Sunken Meadow and Nissequogue River Park have been open. Hiking shoes are recommended. Heavy rain cancels; light rain does not. Take Sunken Meadow Pkwy north to Exit SM4E. Head east on Pulaski Rd. (which changes into Old Dock Rd).  At the 5th traffic light make a right onto St. Johnland Rd. After 1/2 mile, turn left into the Park. GPS Address: 799 Saint Johnland Road Kings Park, NY 11754. Optional lunch afterwards. Hike end time is approximate.

4.8 miles – fast pace – hilly.  Info: Tammy, 631-896-1409, between 6-9pm. A fun hike for the Holiday Week!  This section of the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail has some nice hills to make sure we get a great workout.  We’ll head to Rte 108 taking the Uplands West Loop, which adds about one-half mile to the trip, then return using the more direct route.  The winter views of the harbor along the way are gorgeous.  Bring water and trail snacks.  A hiking pole is recommended.  Heavy rain or snow cancels, light rain or snow does not; call morning of hike if unsure.  Directions:  We’ll meet at the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trailhead on Harbor Rd. (NY 25A) in Cold Spring Harbor, in the unpaved parking lot adjacent to the Cold Spring Harbor Library. Hike end time is approximate.

10 miles - 500 ft Elevation Gain - Moderate Difficulty - 3 MPH pace - Call or Email: Mark, QuistAdventures@gmail.com, 516-672-9853. Come end the year with a hike along the Nassau Suffolk Greenbelt Trail, starting in Bethpage State Park and looping up to Manetto Hills. We will meet in the picnic pavilion parking lot of Bethpage State Park. Bring plenty of water and some snacks! Heavy rain cancels. If unsure, please contact me the morning of the hike. Hike end time is approximate.