A Short Journey Away: AMC's Exploration of New York's Harriman State Park via Public Transportation
In the heart of New York, just 30 miles outside of Manhattan and accessible by public transit in about an hour, lies Harriman State Park - a tranquil haven where nature and urban life intertwine. This vast wilderness preserve, covering 45,000 acres, is New York's second-largest state park and a sanctuary for those seeking a break from the city's hustle and bustle.
The park's rich history is deeply rooted in the development of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.), a 2,190-mile footpath that stretches along the Appalachian Mountains from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia. The A.T. was first proposed by Benton MacKaye in 1921 and opened on October 7, 1923, with its initial sections in New York including areas within or near Harriman State Park.
The Corman Harriman Outdoor Center (CHOC), a modern facility dedicated to outdoor education and recreation, was opened in Harriman State Park in 2016. This retreat offers space for rest and exploration, supporting hiking, camping, and trail maintenance activities connected to the Appalachian Trail and other park trails. CHOC serves as a base for outdoor programs, wilderness excursions, and efforts to sustain trail upkeep, directly linking it to the legacy of the Appalachian Trail in the park region.
The importance of spending time in nature for mental health is undeniable. Over 100 million Americans lack access to green spaces, making facilities like CHOC all the more crucial. Research shows that just fifteen minutes outside can improve mental health, decreasing stress levels and boosting focus, mood, and self-esteem. Getting outside has been shown to improve mental health, reducing feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression.
For those living in New York City, often referred to as the "city that never sleeps" and "the concrete jungle," CHOC offers a much-needed escape. No car is needed to reach this oasis, as public transportation is available. City living is on the rise in NYC, and the need for green spaces within the city limits is growing.
In addition to the Appalachian Trail, Harriman State Park includes over 200 miles of hiking trails and offers opportunities for biking, swimming, fishing, and boating. An AMC shuttle can pick up visitors at Harriman State Park, making it easier than ever to explore this natural gem.
The Palisades Interstate Park Commission, which manages and operates Harriman State Park today, played a role in building the first section of the Appalachian Trail. Since its opening, CHOC has hosted over 60,000 bed nights for various groups, continuing the tradition of outdoor education and recreation in this historically significant location.
In summary, the Corman Harriman Outdoor Center is a vital link to the legacy of the Appalachian Trail and a testament to the importance of nature in our lives. Located in Harriman State Park, this modern facility offers a much-needed escape from city life, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration and education in a beautiful, historic setting.
- The Corman Harriman Outdoor Center (CHOC) in Harriman State Park, a sanctuary for those seeking a break from the city's hustle and bustle, supports mental health by offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and trail maintenance, directly linked to the legacy of the Appalachian Trail.
- For city dwellers, specifically New York natives who find solace in the "city that never sleeps," CHOC serves as a much-needed escape from urban life, accessible via public transit within an hour, providing green spaces essential for mental health improvement and stress reduction.
- Harriman State Park, rich in history, both for its contribution to the Appalachian Trail and the Corman Harriman Outdoor Center, offers a comprehensive outdoor living and health-and-wellness experience, including home-and-garden scenes through its flora and wildlife, ultimately promoting a well-rounded lifestyle that integrates science, mental-health, and outdoor-living benefits.
