On May 10, 2025, Champlain Area Trails (CATS) will host its signature annual event, the Grand Hike. This 16-mile walk will take participants from Lewis to Whallonsburg along the Champlain Valley’s scenic trails and back roads. Shuttles will be available for those who wish to shorten their hike.

The Grand Hike invites outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and community members to explore a section of the nearly 100 miles of trails that CATS has created and maintains. Over 400 hikers and walkers from New York, Vermont, Montreal, the Capital District, Hudson Valley, and New York City are expected to participate.

CATS, an accredited land trust founded in 2009, creates and maintains trails, protects land, and connects people with nature to promote economic vitality in New York’s Champlain Valley. The Grand Hike has become a beloved tradition that welcomes individuals of all skill levels to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.

Participants will board buses at the Essex County Fairgrounds in Westport, transporting them to the starting point at SUNY Plattsburgh’s Twin Valleys Outdoor Education Center in Lewis. From there, walkers and hikers can select their desired hike length, ranging from a leisurely 2-mile stroll to a more challenging 16-mile trek, with shuttle services and shortcuts available for various skill levels. The hike will end at The Grange in Whallonsburg, featuring a celebration with local musicians, food vendors, and activities by community groups.

Hikers will be treated to breathtaking views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains while traversing the Champlain Valley’s low-peak mountains through forests, meadows, streams, and wetlands. This hike showcases the ecological diversity and scenic beauty of the Champlain Valley. Participants can enjoy various amenities throughout the hike, including snacks and portable restrooms, ensuring a comfortable adventure.

“The Grand Hike is a true celebration of the Champlain Valley’s natural wonders and the incredible trails that CATS has worked tirelessly to create and maintain,” said Arin Burdo, Executive Director of CATS. “Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to the outdoors, the Grand Hike provides an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and friends and meet new people on the trail.

CATS has created and maintains over 100 miles of trails, preserved 3,000 acres of land directly and through partnerships, and organizes hikes, educational outings, and volunteer events each year, engaging residents and drawing countless visitors to the Champlain Valley. The Grand Hike exemplifies the organization’s commitment to promoting outdoor recreation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement throughout New York’s Champlain Valley.

Registration for the Grand Hike 2025 is now open. The $45 registration fee includes an event t-shirt and on-route amenities such as water, snacks, shuttle services, and portable restrooms. All proceeds will support CATS’ ongoing trail building, land conservation, and outdoor education efforts.

For further information and to register, please visit www.champlainareatrails.com.