New York

Who's up for some co-ed naked rock climbing? Shockley's Ceiling, in the Shawangunk Mountains—90 miles north of New York City—is a two-pitch 5.6-route made famous by Dick Williams, who in 1965 climbed it in only a swami belt and rock shoes. The Gunks are full of such history—and challenges. The 250-foot white quartz cliffs are a popular and world-class destination for climbers from all parts. The eight-mile-long ridge of cliffs along the western edge of New Paltz, Ulster County, in the Hudson Valley, is the Mecca of eastern climbing, competing on a national level with such famous climbs as Yosemite, Smith Rocks, and Eldorado Canyon. The routes are usually tougher than graded. For instance, High Exposure is likely the toughest 5.6 crag in the country. So keep your clothes on.

Trip Facts
When to go: AprilOctober
Difficulty rating: Moderate to hardcore

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Classic Adventures Paddle the 1,000 Islands Bike the Finger Lakes Flyfish the Catskills Climb the Shawangunks Play Around Lake Placid

Off the Beaten Path Run the Erie Canal Surf Cast at Montauk Hike the North Country Trail Kayak New York City Raft North Country Whitewater

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New York Getaways - Visit the Empire State. Visit New England - Experience the magic of the Northeast outdoors. Biking the Mid-Atlantic - Explore the historic Mid-Atlantic states on bicycle.

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