Thanks again to everyone who was able to make it out to the Hikeathon!

On April 26th, 2014 Sierra Club's New York Inner City Outings Program had its annual Hike-A-Thon. It was a great success. We not only raised funds for our program but brought together many of the amazing agencies and volunteers from all over the city. On site was Ellis High School, PS 159, PS 241, Urban Assembly, and CatRock Leaders.

The hike took place at Tallman Mountain State Park. We did a section of the Long Path. The hike was a great mix for all levels as we had students from third grade to 12th grade.

Our Fearless leader Tom O'Connell broke us up into groups, so we all got a chance to meet new volunteers and students. The weather was perfect for hiking. We had a list of games that we all did with our kids on the trail and it made for some great group bonding.

We stopped halfway for lunch and to set goals for the rest of the hike. We reached a few outstanding view points of the Hudson River and of the Palisades.

For many of the students these trips are the only times they get to travel into the great outdoors. One of the many highlights from a wild perspective was a snake that was spotted by the students of PS 159 (third Graders). Many had never seen a snake in the woods before and they were captivated by it. They made sure to show it to as many people as would come to see it.

At the end we all meet to share a sheet cake that congratulated all the kids and staff on a great day and a great year of giving inner city youth access to the great outdoors.