As the Covid shut things down, we were unable to host any of our regularly scheduled trips, including a pre-season hike, our “Outertheresary hike” and various birthday hikes. But NYS has done a stellar job of managing the pandemic despite its large population and despite being the epicenter of the pandemic in the U.S. And as a result, state parks were partially reopened to groups of 10, along with other businesses. So, we rounded up some old and new fam and did what we do best - went out to celebrate our fam, the outdoors, and the heroes who have worked tirelessly so that we can enjoy another season for outdoor adventures! P.S. For anyone wondering how we pulled off this trip and/or the risks associated with small group trips in general, we researched the eff out of state and county guidelines across 3 regions within driving distance from NYC, and Harriman Park won for a number of reasons, including more parking, less crowded (at least the area we went), and more camping options since the Appalachian Trail cuts right through. If you live in NYC, you were part of an experiment Memorial Day Weekend, where the state allowed restaurants to open with in-store/curb-side pickup. And if they served alcohol, they were allowed to sell it to you so you can take it out to the street. Combined with sunny, 65-degree weather, the lifting of these restrictions turned some of NYC’s most popular neighborhoods into gigantic street fairs where physical distancing was impossible in a city with as many residents as NYC. And not everyone wore masks because… it’s New York F_cking City. So, had you stayed and just went out for groceries, your risk was much greater in your own neighborhood than camping upstate with a small group of responsible campers who wore facial coverings and set up their tents more than 13’ apart. So, New York, come out with us. It’s arguably safer and better for your mental healthy than being cooped up scared of or angry at your neighbors for behaving irresponsibly. This PSA was brought to you by… fun. Remember that? Remember what it used to feel like?

Shout out to the fam who came out and made this trip a memorable one!