A Short Journey Ahead: AMC and New York's Harriman State Park by Public Transportation
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of tranquility can be a challenge. However, a solution lies just 30 miles outside of Manhattan, in Harriman State Park. The Corman Harriman Outdoor Center (CHOC), opened by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) in 2016, offers a retreat for rest and outdoor exploration that supports mental health.
Since its opening, CHOC has hosted over 60,000 bed nights, welcoming visitors seeking a break from the urban environment. The center is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of spending time in nature for mental health.
Harriman State Park, managed by the AMC, provides access to vast natural landscapes. Research in environmental psychology and health has consistently shown that being immersed in nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall psychological well-being. Outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and nature exploration, facilitated by AMC, contribute to mental relaxation, reduce anxiety, and foster mindfulness.
The calming effects of forested areas and fresh air can help lower cortisol levels, the body's primary stress hormone, and improve focus and emotional regulation. Engaging in outdoor recreation can also lead to better sleep patterns and increased endorphin release, boosting emotional resilience and reducing symptoms of depression or anxiety.
Unfortunately, over 100 million Americans lack access to green spaces. This is particularly true for low-income neighborhoods, which have approximately 20% less green space than medium- and high-income neighborhoods. The preserved space in the lower 48 states has rapidly declined in the last 20 years, making it more important to eliminate barriers to accessing the outdoors.
CHOC, conveniently located near New York City, offers an accessible solution. The center is accessible via public transit (train or bus) and an AMC shuttle, making it a viable option for city dwellers who may not have access to a car.
In a city where the population is on the rise, spending time in nature is beneficial for mental health. The average city dweller has to walk over a mile to reach a park or green space. In contrast, Harriman State Park spans 45,000 acres and offers over 200 miles of hiking trails, opportunities for biking, swimming, fishing, and boating.
Spending just 15 minutes outside can improve mental health, decrease stress levels, and boost focus, mood, and self-esteem. A visit to the Corman Harriman Outdoor Center in Harriman State Park could be just the escape you need.
[1] For more information on the benefits of outdoor recreational centers in natural parks, please refer to environmental psychology and health research.
- The Corman Harriman Outdoor Center, located within Harriman State Park, supports mental health by offering opportunities for outdoor exploration and immersion in nature, which is backed by numerous studies in environmental psychology and health.
- Outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and nature exploration at Harriman State Park, facilitated by the Appalachian Mountain Club, help reduce stress levels, improve mood, and enhance psychological well-being.
- For city dwellers who may lack access to green spaces, the Corman Harriman Outdoor Center, easily accessible via public transit, provides an accessible solution for stress reduction and mental health improvement through outdoor recreation.
