After spending a summer in Harriman State Park, I’ve gotta say, the area is wrongly overlooked. Far more accessible than the Catskills or the Adirondacks, Harriman and the surrounding areas boast comparable hikes and views only an hour outside of New York City. Within and nearby the park there are ample options for all sorts of lodging and activities, from upscale resorts and skiing to backcountry camping and swimming. The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, providing plenty of opportunities to hop on it for a day hike or just leave behind some trail magic for thru-hikers. Driving through the area gives you a taste of the gorgeous views and scenery that populate the region and shows you that you’re never very far from natural splendor around here.