Westport, NY – Champlain Area Trails (CATS) will present their long-distance Grand Hike on an almost 14-mile walk through forests and fields. They will have three “oases” along the way, where hikers find snacks, water, portapotties, and a chance to mingle with other hikers.

This hike starts at the North McAuliffe Road Trailhead in Willsboro, NY. It ends at the new Mountain Dog Restaurant & Pub in Westport, NY, where hikers can join an “après hike party” featuring live music, drinks, food to purchase, an outdoor games area, and a post-hike celebration.

“We are so pleased to offer our long-distance Grand Hike again this year,” said Chris Maron, CATS executive director. “Last year, with so many uncertainties, we kept it simple and with a shorter afternoon walk in Westport. Returning to the long-distance format showcases the Champlain Valley’s rolling fields, forests, and family-friendly trails that we work hard to make and maintain.”

The hike starts at 10 am. Hikers can catch a bus at Ballard Park in Westport to start the hike at the junction of Sunset Road and McAuliffe Road in Willsboro. They can also begin the hike at one of the Oases and catch the shuttle to the party.

Past event participants say: “It’s inspiring to see so many people coming together to enjoy the trails and the area“ and “It is a very well-organized and fun day! Great trails, great beer, and a great band!”

A previous Champlain Area Trails Grand Hike. Photo provided by Amber Adamson of Champlain Area Trails. Photo Credit: Pine Tree Imagery and Champlain Area Trails.

Photo provided by Amber Adamson of Champlain Area Trails. Photo Credit: Pine Tree Imagery and Champlain Area Trails.

“The Grand Hike is one of many region-wide actions to promote the Champlain Valley,” said CATS Development and Communications Director Amber Adamson. “It will be great to unite people again over trails and healthy outdoor physical activity. And then to have fun at the après hike party.”

Dan Keegan, CATS Board Chair, added, “The Grand Hike brings people together, young and old, near and far, serious hikers and folks just out for a stroll. The outstanding spring beauty of the Champlain Valley along the CATS trails has a remarkable inspiring effect.”

Everyone is welcome to attend the après hike party, which the community is invited to. There is a fee of $25/per person and $50/per family to register for the hike by April 30. After that date, the fee is $30/per person and $60/per family. Children under 18 are free.  The après hike party is free. To register for the Grand Hike, visit www.ChamplainAreaTrails.com.

About Champlain Area Trails:

Champlain Area Trails (CATS) is a non-profit, accredited land trust whose mission is to protect land and make trails to connect people with nature and promote economic vitality in New York’s Champlain Valley. CATS, founded in 2009, addresses the lack of available public lands and hiking opportunities in the Champlain Valley to ensure that all Adirondack communities have equitable access to trails and nature. We’ve made 67 miles of trails, saved 983 acres, and hosted innumerable volunteer opportunities, hikes, and outdoor education outings, attracting thousands of visitors to the region.

Photo at top: A previous Champlain Area Trails Grand Hike. Photo provided by Amber Adamson of Champlain Area Trails. Photo Credit: Pine Tree Imagery and Champlain Area Trails.