Update: This hike will now take place on Saturday evening, NOT Sunday.

When?

Our hike will take place on Saturday October 26th. We are expecting to be at the trailhead by 4:45PM (1645) and should conclude by 8PM (2000).

Where?

Doodletown was a small isolated hamlet located in at the foot of Bear Mountain. The land is now part of Bear Mountain and Harriman State Parks. The town, which was first settled by Huguenots in the 18th century, now lies in ruins, abandoned and left to nature. One can still see the old foundations of the homes that used to exist there, as well as the old cemeteries. The area holds a lot of historical significance as well. With Fort Montgomery nearby in the north, the settlement was a crossroads for soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Our hike will be light and casual. It is very much a beginner hike in terms of terrain, but even experienced hikers who have never explored the area should find some enjoyment in it as well.

How Much?

$45 / per person, flat rate.

How Long?

Unlike our other hikes, this hiking event will take place in the evening. We will be starting our hike in the light, but finishing in the dark. Understand that once darkness falls, our traveling pace will become slower. The hike is expected to take roughly two (2) to three (3) hours to complete, and will cover a distance of approximately four (4) miles.

What’s Included?

GOODIE BAGS!!!: You can’t have a Halloween celebration without goodie bags and candy. Make sure to say Trick-or Treat to your guide to receive yours.
Headlamps: These will be available to borrow on a first come basis, depending on group size.
Transportation: Empire Hikes can provide transportation from an agreed upon meeting spot to the trailhead. The vehicle can hold up to four hikers and the guide.
Water: BYOB, bring your own bottles. Water provided to fill or refill.
Add’l Equip: First aid kit, insect repellent, and any other necessary equipment will be provided.

What to Bring?

Footwear: Hiking boots, hiking shoes, or other sturdy closed-toe footwear.
Clothing: Weather appropriate. You know your body best. Dress to keep yourself comfortable. This is an evening hike, and may be a bit chilly.
Water Bottles: Remember it’s BYOB.
Backpack: A comfortable backpack to carry your stuff, or at the very least, your water.
Camera: Camera or mobile device to capture the memories of your experience.
Anything else you feel you’ll need to make your experience comfortable. We ask that you please refrain from bringing portable speakers or anything that might disrupt the hike for others. Headphones may seem like a good alternative but you’ll miss out on quite a lot.

If you have any questions or concerns, or to RSVP; please visit the Contact Page. Call or text, or use our easy form to send a message via email. RSVPs close at midnight 10/24.

If you’re reading this, we are proud to announce that our website is now live and booking is now open.

For the remainder of Autumn, and into the Winter season, we will be providing day hikes to several regions in the Lower Hudson Valley. We are currently opening booking with three regions to choose from; The Catskills, Harriman State Park, and the Hudson Highlands areas. Navigate to our Hikes Tab on the menu at the top of the page or click the links in this article to view each hike’s page. Also watch for featured articles on our front page to to find out about any upcoming events or special hikes, we hope to offer such hikes on a monthly basis. Some of the pages on this website are still under construction, we ask that you be patient as we work to get everything else up as soon as possible. For any questions or to book a trip, visit our Contact page. Hope to see some of you on the trails soon.