AMC New York-North Jersey Chapter New Hiker FAQ

Welcome to the Appalachian Mountain Club!  This FAQ page is designed for new members who are not sure how to choose a hike to match their ability level, or what to bring for a day in the outdoors. The New York-North Jersey Chapter lists 10 to 24 hikes every weekend so it is important for new hikers to be honest in their self-assessment – we want you to enjoy yourself! Please also read the front pages of the Schedule before choosing an AMC hike. Here you will find description codes that will help you choose a hike that matches your strength and stamina, public transportation that will get you to your meeting place, and useful information about all aspects of club activities.  This information is also available on the chapter website:  http://www.amc-ny.org/

Who may participate on an AMC hike?
Club hikes are intended for adults (18 years and over) unless otherwise noted. All participants must be physically able to participate in the activity described in the Schedule and they must also be equipped with appropriate clothing, gear, and supplies for a day in the woods. Non-members may hike a few times as guests, and should join AMC if they wish to continue hiking with the club.

How can I decide which hike would be best for me?
Hikes are rated based on pace, terrain and distance, followed by the letter H (organized by the Hiking Committee), W (organized by the Walks and Outings Committee), S (organized by the Singles and Sociables Committee) or Y (organized by the Young Members Committee). These are explained in the front pages of the Schedule. For example, a good beginner hike would be a 2C5(H), which means the pace (2) is a moderate and steady; the terrain (C) is mainly gentle rolling hills and hiking trails; and the distance (5) is estimated at 5 miles.  If you are a new AMC hiker, start with a slower, easier hike rather than a faster, more difficult one. Never choose a hike solely because of its location!
For information about hikes offered by the various committees, please consult the Schedule and the chapter website. All AMC hikes and walks are open to all AMC members regardless of age or marital status, but are especially geared to the groups the different committees serve.

Does AMC offer any special programs for new hikers?
Yes. The Open House evenings for prospective and new members are held at the AMC NYC Office on three Mondays each month. If you are new to the club and/or hiking, this will show some items that will make your first hike more enjoyable, and help you to prepare for seasonal conditions. All current and prospective members are welcome. Orientation nights for new and old members are usually scheduled for one Thursday each month. Join in for an informal discussion of how you can become involved and really enjoy your AMC membership. These events take place at the AMC NYC office, 5 Tudor City Place (near East 41 St), New York, NY. On occasion, additional open houses and orientations are held elsewhere, including at Tent & Trails near City Hall. Please check the current schedule: Open Houses and Orientation Sessions

Where can I find trail descriptions of AMC hikes?
There are many guidebooks available, including the New York Walk Book and the New Jersey Walk Book, which are considered classics.  Harriman Trails: A Guide and History by Bill Myles offers detailed information about trails inside this 50,000-acre treasure, and historical information about its past, its people, and its archeological sites.  Another very good hiking guide is 50 Hikes in the Lower Hudson Valley by Stella Green and H. Neil Zimmerman.

The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference website has a wealth of information about area hikes and offers a discount on guidebooks purchased in combination with trail maps, and discounts on all purchases to TC members.  Also see the Easy Beginner Hikes page and Hike of the Week page (www.nynjtc.org/hotw.html), which describe many area hikes. 

Do I need to register for AMC hikes?
Unless otherwise noted, all hikes are “show and go,” which means that you meet the group at a designated time and place. Please familiarize yourself with the hike codes and transportation codes so you can avoid calling the leader for information that is readily available to you. Only call if you have a question that is not answered in the hike description, or if the leader requires that you confirm that the hike is on, or if the size of the group is limited. Please call the leader at the time designated in the hike description in the Schedule. When you join an AMC hike, you must sign the liability waiver at the meeting place and give a contact name and phone number. This is for your own safety. You can view a copy of the waiver at www.outdoors.org/pdf/upload/volrelease.pdf

Do I need a car to get to AMC hikes?
No. Most hikes meet at locations accessible by bus or train, and public transportation codes, included in hike descriptions, are covered in the front pages of the AMC Schedule. New hikers should confirm the bus or train schedule with the transit company as the times could change after the AMC Schedule is published.

Where in the Port Authority Bus Terminal can I buy a bus ticket?
See the ticket counter locations in the Transportation Code section of the Schedule. Buy a one-way ticket because most hike leaders try to match bus riders with drivers for the trip back. If you have never taken the bus before, ask the driver to announce your stop. You can also ask other hikers if they are getting off at the same stop.

Where can I buy a train ticket?
Most Metro North and NJ Transit stations have vending machines. Some stations have both ticket agents and vending machines. Arrive at your station early enough to purchase your ticket before boarding the train because there is a substantial surcharge on tickets purchased aboard. Buy a one-way ticket because most hike leaders try to match train riders with drivers for the trip back.

Are there any fare discounts especially for hikers?
Metro North offers a 10-trip off-peak Manhattan to Cold Spring ticket book that saves 10 to 15 percent off the one-way off-peak fare. It is valid for one year and can be used by more than one person, even when they are traveling together. Senior hikers (over 65) get a 50% discount, even when purchasing tickets on the train. You can save an additional 5% when you buy your tickets online and have them mailed to you. For more information: http://mta.info/mnr/html/planning/fares/fares.htm
Short Line Bus Senior hikers (over 62) receive a fare discount of 50% at all times.
NJ Transit Rail offers a variety of discount fares, including Off-Peak Round Trips, Ten-Trip Round Trips, and Senior (over 62) discounts. For information: www.njtransit.com/sf_tr_fo.shtml

If I am driving, where do I meet the group?
Drivers should plan to arrive at the meeting place described in the Transportation Code at least ten minutes before the bus or train arrival time so you can don your boots and be ready to go when the train or bus arrives.

Where do I get driving directions to the meeting place?
You should consult your road atlas, or a map site online, to find the town.  In addition directions can be found by accessing the following web site which was created specifically for directions to frequent AMC meeting places: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/amcmaps/.  The Transportation Code gives detailed directions on where to park. Please read the directions carefully because if you park in an off-limits area you are likely to get a ticket or be towed.  And please do not call the hike leader for travel directions unless you have tried all possible ways of finding the location and still have questions.   

If I get a ride back to the city, should I offer to share the cost of gas and tolls?
Passengers should offer to share the costs equally with the driver. Ask the driver; as a rule of thumb, a ride from Harriman to Manhattan would be $5.00.  Also see the Car Transportation guidelines following the Transportation Code section of the Schedule.

Can I wear my jeans and a sweatshirt?
Cotton is not recommended except in very hot weather, and jeans are not comfortable for hiking. In the cooler months, we still get very hot and sweaty while hiking. When stopping for breaks, we cool down quickly and wet cotton clothes can cause hypothermia posing a risk not only to the hiker but to the group as well. Most hikers wear synthetic clothes, in layers, because they wick moisture away from the skin and dry quickly. You will also need a water resistant windbreaker with a hood in case of a sudden rainstorm. If you don’t own one, you can get an emergency poncho in many large drugstores. In cold weather, a fleece or wool hat is needed, a fleece or wool headband if you get too warm in a hat, and extra items in your backpack might include a fleece vest, a windbreaker, two or more extra pair of gloves in case the first pair gets wet; an extra shirt to change into for the ride home, and always, an extra pair of hiking socks.  A leader can refuse a hiker if he/she deems the hiker is not attired in a manner appropriate to the conditions.  Also see the AMC NY-NoJ Chapter Winter Hiking FAQ.

Do I need hiking boots or can I wear sneakers?
Hiking boots are probably more important for new hikers than for seasoned pros who nimbly hop among rocks and across ledges! It’s more important to have a properly fitted boot and good socks than to make a fashion statement, so go to a sporting goods retailer who knows how to fit boots. There is much to choose from, so take your time, and do check out sale items. A good boot fitter can also make suggestions about socks. Most hikers would agree that good hiking socks are just as important as properly fitted boots when it comes to preventing blisters and foot pain.  A leader may refuse a hiker who does not have appropriate footgear.

How do I choose hiking boots that will be right for me?
All the top brands, from EMS and L.L. Bean to Asolo and Solomon, produce boots of comparable quality within each price range. The difference between boots lies in the use for which they were designed, which affects the cost. For example, boots for hiking on woodland trails will cost around $70 or $80, while a boot designed for hopping along ledges and sticking to steep rocks will cost around $160, whether it's made by Garmont, Merrell, or La Sportiva. Boots designed for heavy-duty winter use, such as the Vasque Alpine, made with one-piece uppers and a steel shank that allows for the safe use of crampons, cost around $250. If you need a boot with a waterproof Gore-Tex liner, that will add more to the price. For most winter hiking, though, a mid-weight waterproof boot with a good tread, a wicking polyester sock liner worn under your wool socks, and a pair of waterproof gaiters will probably suffice when paired with some sort of cleats or creepers to prevent falls on ice.
So the first step in choosing hiking boots is to determine what kind of hiking you’re most likely to be doing. Then go to a retailer known for expertise in fitting boots. A good boot fitter will measure your feet and take note of any conditions, such as pronation, that might require a supportive foot bed in order to get the best possible fit.  Take along the socks you like wear for hiking. Be patient, and if you don’t think the selection is broad enough, go to another store. Some stores that offer expert boot fitting will even take returns on boots that have been worn if the boot turns out to be a bad fit; Eastern Mountain Sports is one.

How can I tell if the boots are properly fitted?
The boots should be snug at the heel but roomy enough for you to wiggle your toes.  One way to test for a good fit is to move your foot forward in the unlaced boot so that your toes touch the front of the boot. There should be just enough room for your forefinger to fit between your heel and the back of the boot. If you are an in-between size, have the boots fitted to your larger foot and try using a more cushioned insert, or heavier socks, in the boot for your smaller foot. Sporting goods stores that cater to hikers will have a slanted ramp that you can walk up and down to test the boots for comfort when walking up and down hills.
 

Do I have to break in the boots before wearing them on a hike?
Before you wear a pair of new boots to hike over hilly, rocky terrain, you might want to wear them around town for a day to be sure they fit comfortably.  Unless you have bought heavy-duty, full-grain leather backpacking boots, which will take several wearings before they lose some of their original stiffness, most boots will begin conforming to your foot after a few miles of walking. On your first outing with new boots, take along some extra socks of different weights in case you need to make adjustments for a more comfortable fit. 

How can I prepare for winter hiking?
If you've ever wondered what staying "comfortably cool" could possibly mean at sub-zero temperatures, AMC hike leaders generally offer a weeknight event in the fall to explain the principles behind the mystifying array of high-tech fiber clothing and gadgets. In addition, the almost weekly Open House evenings for prospective and new members are especially geared to this subject as winter approaches.

Traction aids such as Stabilicers or Microspikes may also be necessary, particularly in icy conditions.  Some of our leaders require that hikers have them.  See the individual hike description or contact the leader if in doubt.  These items can be purchased at tents and Trails, Campmor, and EMS. 

Are there any discounts available to hikers who need to outfit themselves from head to toe?
Yes. AMC members get a 10% discount on AMC maps and books; for information: www.outdoors.org/amcstore/.   AMC members also get a 10% discount at all non-sale items at Tent & Trails, located at 21 Park Place in Manhattan, near City Hall.  Eastern Mountain Sports has an annual Club Day, on which members of AMC, the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, and other outdoors organizations are offered a one-day discount on all items not already on sale. New York-New Jersey Trail Conference members receive a 25% discount on NY-NJTC trail maps and guides; for information: nynjtc.org/store/index.html and a 10% discount from a number of area sporting goods retailers; for information: www.nynjtc.org/commerce/discount.html

How much food and water should I bring for a day hike?
Bring lunch, trail snacks, fresh or dried fruit, a minimum 2 quarts of water (3 quarts when the temperature is over 80 degrees), and in cold weather, a thermos of hot tea or soup in addition. Never skimp on water because it is your responsibility, not the leaders’ or any of the other hikers’, to have enough. After you have hiked various distances in different weather conditions, you will have a better idea of how much water and food you need. You should always carry some extra food, such as high-energy bars, in case you experience a delay or if you feel hungry on the trip back home.

What else should I bring?
Daypack
ID card
Sunscreen
Insect repellent and topical benadryl during bug season
Small first aid kit with band aids, Ibuprofen, moleskin for blisters
A few feet of duct tape rolled onto a ballpoint pen (for everything from kit repairs to blister first aid)
Small amount of toilet paper
Kleenex
Hand sanitizer
Plastic bags for carrying out your trash (including toilet paper)
Optional items:
Sunglasses
Bandanna
Whistle
Trail maps and compass
Pocketknife
Headlamp or small flashlight
Foam pad to sit on during breaks
Mylar “space blanket” – takes up little space, useful in case of downpour or emergency

What is the role of the leader and the assistant leader?
It’s the leader’s responsibility to plan and organize the hike and to guide the group, from the designated meeting place until the time of departure. The leader’s decisions about the route and group conduct are final. The assistant leader is there to assist the leader, who may delegate certain roles to that person. Some leaders also bring a particular expertise to their outings, such as orienteering, natural history, geology, botany, local history, etc. AMC leaders are volunteers who want to provide an enjoyable day in the woods, so it is important to follow their guidance and to observe all park regulations and club rules. Keep in mind that hiking involves a certain element of risk and that your personal safety is your responsibility, not the leader’s and that lack of preparation on your part can adversely impact the group as a whole.

What is the role of the sweep?
The sweep is appointed by the leader before the hike begins, and it is this hiker’s role to remain at the very end of the group so he or she can make sure that nobody is left behind. For the safety of the group, the weakest or slowest member of the group should never be appointed sweep. Always stay in front of the sweep. If you need a separation break before the leader calls one, shout ahead to request that leader stop. Never leave the group for a solo separation!

What if I want to go faster than the group or if I can’t keep up?
It is best to remain with the group even if you feel that the pace is too slow. If you do go ahead, the leader will assume that you have left the hike, and will note the sign-in sheet accordingly. If you find that you cannot keep up with the group, it is best to turn back at the very beginning of the hike, after notifying the leader. Remember to read the hike descriptions carefully so you can chose a hike appropriate for your ability. 

What is a separation?
Literally, separating the group by gender for a bathroom break in the woods. Usually one group goes ahead, then calls back to the other when ready to resume the hike.

What is “low impact hiking”?
Low impact hiking practices help preserve the trails and woodlands we enjoy on hikes, so please stay on trails and on rocks where possible to avoid trampling the vegetation, and during a separation, stay at least 50 feet away from a water source and at least 10 feet away from the trail. Bring a plastic bag to carry out whatever you pack in, and please carry out what others have carelessly left behind.

How can I find out about AMC’s last minute hikes?
If you would like to receive information about last minutes hikes or walks not listed in the AMC Schedule, send an email to: hikeamc-subscribe [at] yahoogroups [dot] com (hikes and walks organized by the Hiking and Walks Committee) and/or amc_ym_nynj-subscribe [at] yahoogroups [dot] com (activities including hikes, organized by the Young Members Committee- 20s and 30s). Include your full name and AMC membership number, which appears on the mailing label of your AMC Outdoors magazine.

Can I bring my dog on AMC hikes?
No, unless the description specifically states that the hike is “dog friendly.”  On those hikes, it is required that the animal be on a leash at all times in compliance with the rules and regulations of the park.

Can I use my cell phone on a hike?
No, cell phone usage is not allowed except in the case of an emergency or special situation in which case it should be used away from the group.  Otherwise cell phones should be turned off.