How to escape to nature on very limited time? (New York: beach, parks)

[EastBoundandDownChick]

I have two days off for the entire month (not back-to-back). I just really need a nature break... where does one go to escape on limited time?

[mathjak107]

ever wonder where the park ranger goes to escape things? lol

the poconos can be very nice. try pike or wayne county but i would stay away from monroe.

[bluedog2]

Go to the New York Botanical Garden.

[dad_the_inhaler]

If I want a quick fix sometimes I'll go out to the Delaware Water Gap and hike up Mt. Tammany. Sunfish pond, Dunnfield Creek, Appalacian Trail, lots to do.

Trails at the Gap - Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

There's also the Shawangunks or the 'Gunks (a bit more of a drive) if you're into climbing or just nice overlooks, Blue Mtn Reservation if you're into Mtn Biking, Harriman State Park (West Mountain Shelter is a nice hike), lots of smaller parks. Depends on what you're into.

[nei]

The Gunks in Minnewaska State Park

[Adhom]

Go to Cold Spring, NY, a small town next to the Hudson River.

[Forest_Hills_Daddy]

Rainforest Cafe in Edison, NJ.

[NooYowkur81]

Originally Posted by mathjak107

ever wonder where the park ranger goes to escape things? lol

the poconos can be very nice. try pike or wayne county but i would stay away from monroe.

Why go to another state when you can just go upstate. Upstate has nature up the wazoo. Bear mountain is close.

Bear Mountain State Park - NYS Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation

[bill83]

Originally Posted by EastBoundandDownChick

I have two days off for the entire month (not back-to-back). I just really need a nature break... where does one go to escape on limited time?

Do you find your nude beach yet? It will be a good nature break in good weather.

For a dark rainy day like today, you may watch every episode of Planet Earth in bluray.

[Coney]

No need to leave the city at all.
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge

Take one of the guided excursions with a park ranger.