Exhibits: Hiking and the Outdoors in New York State

Throughout New York State's past, individual visitors and the state government have promoted the natural beauty, history, and recreational activities that the state has to offer. From Samuel Latham Mitchill's 1807 guide to New York City (Picture of New York), to Gideon Minor Davison's 1821 state guidebook (The Fashionable Tour), to William H. H. Murray's 1869 Adirondack stories (Adventures in the Wilderness), 19th century visitors shared their experiences and attracted thousands of tourists. As the century passed, improvements in transportation such as the Erie Canal and the rapidly growing network of railroads made enticing destinations like Niagara Falls and the Adirondacks more easily reachable. For the past century, state agencies have devoted significant resources to preserving and enhancing New York's outdoor attractions and tapped the latest media platforms to attract visitors.

This exhibit features one of the best activities for experiencing New York’s natural beauty – hiking!  These images illustrate efforts to conserve, educate and promote the beauty of New York’s trail system.